What materials are used to make a harpsichord?

Most of the harpsichord is made of wood including the case and the soundboard. Even the keys of most of these instruments are wooden. Another traditional material for keys is ivory, which has now been replaced by plastic like celluloid. The soundboard is often made of spruce, cypruss or cedar.

How much does it cost to build a harpsichord?

Many of our harpsichords can be built for between $14,000 and $18,000, clavichords from $3,000. However, instruments can cost more depending on features and finish.

Why do harpsichords have two manuals?

The two keyboards, or “manuals”, control different sets of strings. In some designs, the second manual might control strings tuned a fourth (four notes) down from the main keyboard. This allows the harpsichordist to switch to a lower register when required, which frees up the higher registers for a vocal accompaniment.

How long does it take to make a harpsichord?

Actual working time will varying according to the stage of construction (our instruments can be built to whatever stage of completion you desire) but typically you should plan on 50 to 60 hours for the smallest instrument like the fretted clavichord and 250 hours and up for a larger instruments like the Flemish or …

What is a small harpsichord called?

SPINET. a small and compactly built upright piano.

How much does it cost to restring a harpsichord?

Restringing: $500 per set of strings, includes materials and labor. Repairs: $85 per hour.

Is harpsichord touch sensitive?

Due to its primitive and weak plucking action, the harpsichord did not have a touch-sensitive keyboard; the player had practically no control over the volume of individual notes.

Is the harpsichord difficult to learn?

It’s not difficult to play harpsichord physically (though it does take different physical awareness and technique), but it is a completely different instrument that uses a musical “language” that is very different from the way we are accustomed to play on a modern piano.

Do harpsichords have sustain pedals?

Harpsichords do not respond to velocity and they are not equipped with a sustain pedal. It is however possible to use the sustain pedal to emulate keys being held down, on our sounds.

What are the strings of a harpsichord made of?

The bass strings are always brass, and some harpsichords were designed for brass throughout their entire compass, while others were designed for iron strings from the tenor to the treble.