Welcome to the website of The Clarsach Society
|
| The Clarsach (harp) is Scotland's oldest
instrument, having been played throughout the land from very earliest
times. Two old clarsachs, from the 15th and 16th centuries, survive, and
may be seen in the National Museum. The modern instrument, though larger
and with gut rather than wire strings, is based on their design. For more
on the history of the clarsach,
click here. For various historical reasons, harping almost died out by the end of the 18th century, and the music, never written down, was lost. Good new instruments are now being made and The Clarsach Society (Comunn na Clarsaich) has encouraged a great revival of interest in the instrument, especially amongst young players, who enjoy its adaptability to solo work, accompaniment or ensemble playing. The Clarsach Society exists to promote the instrument and to help players. It has 11 local branches throughout the UK, a special interest group for wire strung harp enthusiasts and a HQ/central unit which operates the harp hire service and music sales. It organises the Edinburgh International Harp Festival each spring. Please use the
navigation buttons on the left to work your way
around our website. |
Charity number: SCO11819