Tradition
The clàrsach or Highland harp is Scotland's oldest musical instrument. There is evidence of the small harp dating back to the 9th century. Carvings were found on stone crosses in several parts of Scotland (Nigg, Duplin and Aultbar stones).

The History
Harpers accompanied troops into battle till superceded by the pipes in the 16th century. Until the middle of the 18th century the harpers had a good position in society as they were employed to entertain clan chiefs and noble families. They often were given a house and land. MacLeod of Dunvegan had in his retinue a a harper, a bard, a piper and a fool.

The Culture
Playing the clarsach was a neccessary accomplishment among cultivated people and often the instrument was passed around for all to take a turn. Scotland's most famous clarsach player and composer was Ruaraidh Dall who was piper to Iain Breac 19th century chief of MacLeod at Dunvegan Castle. He died in 1712.

Music Heritage
Today there are more players than at any time since the middle ages and playing the clarsach is very popular in Scotland. Musicians can again make a full time living out of composing, teaching and playing music on the harp.


Three national instruments
The fiddle is one of the three national instruments of Scotland, the others being the bagpipes and the clarsach

with love from highlands Tess