Aeolian Harp

Aeolian harp

Stringed instrument played by the wind (named for the wind god Aeolus). It is usually a long, narrow, shallow box with soundholes and 10 or 12 strings strung lengthwise between two bridges. The strings are of the same length but different thicknesses and are all tuned to the same pitch; the wind makes them vibrate in successively higher harmonics. The harp may be hung, or set horizontally under a window sash. The first known Aeolian harp was constructed c. 1650 by Athanasius Kircher (1601–1680).

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aeolian harp

a stringed instrument that produces a musical sound when a current of air or wind passes over the strings

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Aeolian harp

musical instrument activated by winds. [Gk. Myth.: Jobes, 40]

See : Wind

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Aeolian Harp

(1) A stringed instrument. The aeolian harp is a narrow wooden box, equipped with sound holes, that serves as a resonator; eight to 13 strings of varying thicknesses, all tuned in unison, are stretched inside the box. The instrument was positioned on the roof of a house, where wind caused the strings to vibrate and produce various harmonics over the same fundamental. The sound ranged, depending on the force of the wind, from a low, gentle tone to a quite loud one. The aeolian harp has been known since the tenth century.

(2) In Russia, the name of an instrument with vibrating metal reeds and a round, flared opening, or bell; a type of accordion. First made in St. Petersburg in the early 19th century, the instrument was later produced in other cities of Russia as well.