chromatic harp

The term "chromatic harp" refers to a type of harp designed to produce a full chromatic range of notes, meaning all 12 notes within an octave. This is achieved through various mechanisms, such as pedal systems or multiple rows of strings.

Historically, harps were often diatonic, meaning they had seven notes per octave. Efforts to adapt harps for changing musical styles led to innovations like hooks or pedals that could alter string pitches. The modern double-action pedal harp is an example of a frame harp that incorporates a complex mechanism for a full chromatic range.1

Chromatic harps also include instruments with multiple rows of strings, such as the double harp (two rows) and the Welsh triple harp (three rows). Another type, invented in the late 19th century, features two crossing sets of strings. The Irish harp, while traditionally diatonic, can be made chromatic through the use of turnable hooks that raise a string's pitch by a semitone.12