Construction:

• Lyre harps are typically constructed with a wooden body, often featuring a hollow soundbox with a curved or angular shape reminiscent of ancient lyres.
• The soundboard, or top surface of the harp, is usually made of a resonant wood such as spruce or cedar, which helps to amplify the sound produced by the strings.
• The strings are attached to tuning pins or pegs at the top of the harp and run down the length of the soundboard, passing over a bridge before terminating at the base of the instrument.

Materials:

• The body of a lyre harp is commonly made from hardwoods such as mahogany, walnut, or maple, which provide durability and resonance.
• The strings are typically made from nylon, metal, or gut, depending on the desired tone quality and playing characteristics.
• Decorative elements such as carvings, inlays, or painted designs may adorn the body of the harp, adding to its aesthetic appeal.

Design:

• Lyre harps come in various sizes and designs, ranging from small lap harps with a dozen strings to larger floor-standing models with several octaves of strings.
• Some lyre harps feature a traditional open-backed design, while others may have a solid back or incorporate additional resonating chambers for enhanced sound projection.
• The shape of the harp's soundbox and the placement of the strings can vary, affecting the instrument's overall tone and playability.

Playing Characteristics:

• Lyre harps produce a delicate and ethereal sound, characterized by their warm tone and gentle resonance.
• Due to their smaller size and fewer strings compared to concert harps, lyre harps are often easier to play and more portable, making them suitable for beginners and traveling musicians.
• Players can produce a variety of melodic and harmonic effects by plucking the strings with their fingers or using a small pick or plectrum.