Each harper should have good working knowledge of both the construction and performance of all types of musical instruments. Musical instruments fall into three general classes: wind, string, and percussion.

Wind instruments produce sound by the vibration of air as it passes through a tubular structure. Wind instruments are divided into two categories: Woodwind and Brass. The shape and length of the instrument determines the tones produced.

String instruments function through the vibration of strings of set tensions. The strings, made of animal gut, can be either bowed or plucked. By tightening or loosening the strings, the musician can affect the sound quality of the instrument.

Percussion instruments are those that are struck by either sticks, mallets, or hand. They are used both to add tones and to keep rhythm.

Construction of musical instruments requires both steady hands and a good ear for tone. Most harpers acquire at least a smattering of knowledge in other crafts, having to be adequate in both woodworking and metalworking skills, as well as familiar with the tools associated with both of those.


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