Muckross Harp Trail 2015. Photo: Valerie O'Sullivan
The Arts Council of Ireland/An Chomhairle Ealaíon has published the Report on the Harping Tradition in Ireland by Toner Quinn. This major piece of research into the harp and harping in Ireland presents an invaluable picture of contemporary harp practice including information about repertoire, composition, performance, tuition and harp-making.
The Arts Council recognises that the harp in Ireland has a particular significance and an extraordinarily rich history having been played on the island for an estimated one thousand years. The harping community in Ireland refers to the instrument in all its forms - the early Irish harp, the gut-strung Irish harp and the concert harp. The harp has an important standing within the traditional arts in Ireland while, at the same time, it reflects a multi-stranded practice characterised by great diversity.
Quinn's research is based on extensive survey and interview with harpers across Ireland. It features mapping of harp practice and resources as well as a critical review of Arts Council investment relevant to the harp. It is an important document that will inform Council's policy as it develops in the future.
The Report on the Harping Tradition in Ireland is available to download (PDF, 5.15 MB) here.
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