The Autoharp Page. Autoharp. Modern Autoharp History[edit] Autoharp (center) by C.F. Zimmermann Co. in 1896–1899; (left is Marxophone, right is Dolceola) There is debate over the origin of the autoharp. A German immigrant in Philadelphia by the name of Charles F. Zimmermann was awarded US 257808 in 1882 for a design for a musical instrument that included mechanisms for muting certain strings during play. Trademark[edit] The term Autoharp was registered as a trademark in 1926.[4] The word is currently claimed as a trademark by U.S.
Construction[edit] Modern autoharps have 36 or 37 strings, although some examples with as many as 47 strings, and even a rare 48-string model exists. Although the autoharp is often thought of as a rhythm instrument for playing chordal accompaniment, modern players can play melodies on the instrument. Diatonically strung single key instruments from modern day luthiers such as Orthey, Fladmark, Hollandsworth, D'Aigle, Baker, Daniels and Goose Acres are known for their lush sound. See also[edit] Autoharp Works. AUTOHARP MUSIC TIPS - and - AUTOHARP RADIO. Autoharp, Custom Autoharps, Oscar Schmidt. Harp Doctor Autoharp Sales.