Clarsach

/ˈklɑːrsəx/ noun

Definition

A small Celtic harp, especially the traditional Scottish or Irish harp with wire strings, also known as a Celtic harp.

Etymology

From Scottish Gaelic clàrsach, from Old Irish cláirseach. The word has been used for over 1,000 years to describe small triangular harps with plucked strings.

Kelly Says

The clarsach appears on the Irish coat of arms and is one of the oldest continuously used musical instruments in Europe. Some clarsaches are tuned with steel wire instead of nylon, creating a brilliant crystalline sound unlike any other harp.

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