Harps in Valpo

The harp is a traditional plucked instrument that in Chile dates back to colonial times. Traditionally tuned to G with gut and later nylon strings to play tonadas, cuecas and other folk dances. In Valparaiso it shows up in older houses and according to the few records I have read where it is named it was quite popular up to mid XX century. Above, two examples, from left to right a parlor and a concert folk harp from Anna Hicks' collection.