Harp Tent

The Harp Tent offers two full days of programming from 9am-5pm on both Saturday and Sunday.

Long before the introduction of the bagpipes in the 15th century, the Scottish harp (clarsach in Gaelic) was Scotland's oldest national instrument. Dating back to the 8th century, the harp remained central to Gaelic courtly music until the 18th century. The harp is also the national symbol of Ireland. While its earliest orgins are lost, the Irish harp has a history dating back at least 1,000 years. Brian Boru, the last High King of Ireland (d. 1014), is said to have been an accomplished player. During this time, music was not written down, and we have musician and folk music collector Edward Bunting to thank for luring harpers to Belfast in 1792 where he wrote down the music they played.

The Celtic harp, also called the folk or lever harp, has enjoyed a resurgence since the early 1970s. With discoveries of new musical manuscripts, a renewed interest in traditional music, and builders using modern materials to recreate old and design new instruments, the harp has been revived.

Please stop by the Harp Tent and say hello. We'll be sharing music and educational presentations throughout the day.

Where is the Harp Tent?
You can find just inside the North Gate next to the Culture Tent. See map below.