Multi-course harp

Diatonic double harps can also be tuned in octaves to allow for an extended range on small instruments.

To play a sharp, the harpist reaches in between the strings in either outer row and plucks the center row string.

This harp originated in Italy in the 16th century as a low headed instrument, and towards the end of 17th century it arrived in Wales where it developed a high head and larger size as the Welsh triple harp.

The traditional design has all of the strings strung from the left side of the neck, but modern neck designs have the two outer rows of strings strung from opposite sides of the neck to greatly reduce the tendency for the neck to roll over to the left.

Cross-strung harps have two rows of strings that intersect in the middle.