The Harp in Wales

A celebration of the harp in Wales, an instrument as symbolically key to a Welsh identity as the flag itself, this study provides fascinating insight into a little-examined area of musical heritage. Musician-author Bruce Cardwell presents a history of the harp in Wales, including how it grew to prominence, its evolving role in Welsh culture, how it became a central symbol of Welshness, how it has developed as a musical instrument in response to changing musical taste, and the booming harp business today. He also explores the craft of harp-making, including the variety of construction, materials, designs and aesthetics, issues of playability and tone, and the fusion of craft skills with art sensibilities. The book also has a section on 36 contemporary Welsh harpists, with portraits and a narrative on their perspective on their personal instruments, their individual repertoires, and how they see their place in the continuing tradition. These harpists include Catrin Finch, Elinor Bennett, Delyth Jenkins, Robin Huw Bowen, Twm Morys, Gwenan Gibbard, Harriet Earis, and Llio Rhydderch.

Bruce Cardwell is a photographer, a folk musician, and the author of Hoofpicks and Noteworthy. His photographs also appear in the BBC Wales documentary Hoofprints.

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