Our new season is now open: Spring 1677 !
Harpsichord
The harpsichord is a musical instrument whose strings are plucked from a keyboard and which sits on a table or stand while being played. They have been made in varying shapes, sizes and sounds over the years.
During this century, the harpsichord range was increased. Most early instruments covered less than 4 octaves, this was gradually expanded to 5 octaves. Often this was done by retuning the bass octave to omit sharp notes, thus reaching deeper notes with no change to the instrument. (In this 1677 Fabry of Bologna extended the range by splitting the lowest two sharp keys and squeezing two new sets of strings into an existing design: the keyboard looking the same as we have today.)
Imported from Italy, our harpsichords produce grand, rich tones. Their beautifully veneered cases are of such quality as can grace even the finest of Drawing Rooms. A fine instrument and an exquisite piece of furniture! A must for any fashionable residence.
Price: £720, delivered and set up
