Brian Boru harp

musical instrument

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June 22, 2026

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The Brian Boru harp is a historical Irish harp, a type of frame harp, dating from the 14th century. It is characterized by a large soundbox carved from a single piece of wood, a curved neck, and a forepillar. This harp typically has 36 brass strings that were plucked with fingernails, producing a ringing sound. The Brian Boru harp is approximately 32 inches (80 cm) high. The Irish harp, in general, was a significant instrument in medieval Ireland and Scotland, known for its diatonic tuning and bell-like tone.12

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stringed instrument
Harps
The so-called Brian Boru harp (14th century), now at Trinity College, Dublin, is about 32 inches (80 cm) high, with 36 brass strings; the sound box is carved from a single piece of willow, and the harp is plucked by the fingernails.
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The so-called Brian Boru harp (14th century), now at Trinity College, Dublin, is about 32 inches (80 cm) high, with 36 brass strings; the sound box is carved from a single piece of willow, and the harp is plucked by the fingernails.
Read More