You are correct of course in terminology. The gut or synthetic strung instrument he played is referred to as the neo Irish harp. As for the sound there's really a lot of sustain but it lacks that clear distinct attack from using the nails. I agree with you the charm of that ringing is lost. Does anyone know who made his wire harp?

_________________
Information is not knowledge.
Knowledge is not wisdom.
Wisdom is not truth.
Truth is not beauty. Beauty is not love.
Love is not music. Music is the best.
- Frank Zappa

My apologies for not checking in here more often--after starting a thread on..

I haven't been able to keep up harping over the summer--being the primary caregiver to twins
...and broken nails

I did manage to recently pick up a smaller hammered dulcimer, on which I play much of the same repertoire of Carolan tunes; my new (to me) small one allows me to play more often as I sometimes don't keep my large one out. I've also been back at the flute and box lately, too

Cheers!