Expert: John Moyer - 5/30/2004

Question
i have an instrument that has strings like a harp but also has a keyboard of some kind at the bottom that you push the kyss on and move it across the stringss to play it it is very old but i have no idea what is called any help will be greatly appreciated.
                    thank you
                        rick barger

Answer
Dear Rick,
    This may be an autoharp.  To be sure about it, take it to a store that sells banjos and guitars.  Call first and find out if they are interested in it.  Otherwise, find out who does the repair work for the stores and talk to him.  Often the repairmen are more knowledgeable than the store owners.  Also you might try to find some folk musicians who can steer you to a person knowledgeable about the instrument.  As a last (or perhaps first) resort, go to your local library and talk to the librarian about finding a book about your instrument.  A few phone calls to the stores may save you some time.  Jake.