The harp consists of 46-48 strings surrounded by a wooden or metallic frame , which provides the soundboard for the instrument. In the contemporary concert harp there are seven pedals, which are used to alter the tuning of the instrument. These pedals allow the harp to play most chords and specific melodic passages. The harp is most commonly used to create a dense harmonic texture - the arpeggio - "a la harp", where the notes of a chord are played quickly in succession.

The attack of the sound of the harp (and muting if desired) may be used as the attack of the sound of another instrument. Other special playing techniques include hitting the string, continuous tuning or modifying the strings. The sound of the harp is compatible with all other instruments, although it must be noted that the sound of harp is not very powerful therefore it can easily be drowned out by surrounding musical texture. 

Recommended combinations:

Harp with a woodwind
Harp with xylophone or marimba
Harp with kantele or vibraphone

Listen to the audio samples:

Melody (369 KB)
Glissando (92 KB)