Belfast Harp Society | Walking Tour

From 1792, this city led the way in preserving the ancient music of Ireland as played on the Harp. During the brief Belfast Enlightenment, these old tunes were transcribed and published. A Harp Society was established in 1808 to ensure this millennium-old tradition survived in a rapidly changing society.

On this tour you will learn of the main players in this endeavour – the founders, the students and, particularly, the four Harp Masters until 1840, who shared this cherished art with new generations. We will visit city centre sites relevant to this telling of the saving of our musical heritage.