A generic term for a range of intruments whose origins are ancient. Strings of different lengths and thicknesses are stretched across an open frame. Each string produces a different note when plucked by the thumb and fingers. Harps range in size from small versions (associated with folk traditions) which can be held in the crook of an arm, to the giant modern orchestral harp that is free-standing. All sizes are commonly still used as accompaniment to song.
