The Welsh Harp: The Music of Our Land and Our Hearts
The sweet, shimmering notes of the harp are as much a part of Wales as the mountains, the valleys, and the song of the people. In fact, no other instrument is so deeply woven into the fabric of Welsh tradition as the harp — our national instrument , and a symbol of beauty, poetry, and resilience. For me, the sound of the Welsh harp doesn’t just echo through history; it touches the heart. It’s a living voice of our ancestors, singing across the hills and rivers of Cymru. A Deep-Rooted History The history of the harp in Wales stretches back over a thousand years . Harps were played in Welsh courts as early as the 11th century , and by the 13th century , the harp had become firmly established as a key part of Welsh culture. It was more than just entertainment — it was a highly respected art form. During the time of the Laws of Hywel Dda (the great medieval Welsh lawmaker), harpists were given special status, with clear rules about their role in society. They were considered essential...
