How to Buy a Harpsichord

Your Guide to buying the best Harpsichord

Overview

A harpsichord is a unique and beautiful instrument that has been used by musicians for centuries. With its delicate sound and intricate design, it is a must-have for any musician looking to add a new instrument to their collection. This buying guide is designed to provide you with an overview of the harpsichord, along with the key things you should consider when making a purchase. Here you will learn about different types of harpsichords, various features to look for, and tips on finding the right harpsichord for your needs. With the right information, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect harpsichord for your needs.

Key features

  1. Type of Harpsichord - There are two main types of harpsichords available, single-manual and double-manual, both of which are distinguished by the number of keyboards. The single-manual harpsichord has one keyboard and is more affordable, while the double-manual harpsichord has two keyboards and is more expensive.
  2. Size - Harpsichords come in a variety of sizes, from small student models to full-sized professional instruments.
  3. Soundboard - The soundboard is a critical element of a harpsichord and affects the instrument’s tone. Look for a soundboard made of spruce or other high-quality materials.
  4. Strings - The type and quality of strings used in a harpsichord will affect its sound. Look for harpsichords with strings made of brass or other high-quality materials.
  5. Action - The action is the mechanism by which the strings are plucked when the keys are pressed. Look for harpsichords with a good action that is responsive and consistent.
  6. Price - Harpsichords come in a variety of price ranges, from budget options to professional-level instruments that can cost thousands of dollars. Consider your budget and the type of harpsichord you need when looking at price.

See the most popular Harpsichord on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Authentic Sound - The harpsichord has an authentic, traditional sound that is unique to the instrument. It is often associated with Baroque music.
  • High Quality Materials - Harpsichords are typically made with high quality woods and materials, making them durable and able to last for a long time.
  • Versatility - Harpsichords can be used to play a variety of different genres of music, making them a versatile instrument.
  • Portability - The harpsichord is relatively small and lightweight, making it an easy instrument to transport to different locations.
  • Accessible Price - Harpsichords are typically quite affordable, making them an attractive option for those on a budget.

Cons

  • Cost: Harpsichords are expensive instruments, with pricing ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
  • Maintenance: Regular maintenance is required to keep the instrument in good condition, such as regular tuning, string replacements, and other repairs.
  • Location: Harpsichords are large and cumbersome instruments and not easily portable. Finding a place to store the instrument can be difficult.
  • Skill Level: Harpsichords require specialized technique to play, so it can be difficult for a beginner to learn the instrument.

Best alternatives

  1. Clavichord - an early keyboard instrument that is similar to a harpsichord but produces a softer, more intimate sound.
  2. Organ - a keyboard instrument with a large variety of sounds and usually multiple keyboards and pedals.
  3. Piano - a keyboard instrument that produces a louder, more percussive sound.
  4. Synthesizer - an electronic keyboard instrument that produces a wide range of sounds, including some that mimic the harpsichord.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Strings - Metal or gut strings connected to the tuning pins and tuned to specific notes.
  • Jack - A small wooden lever that moves up and down when the key is pressed and plucks the string.
  • Plectrum - A small strip of material that plucks the strings.
  • Soundboard - A wooden panel that vibrates when the strings are plucked, producing the sound.
  • Keyboard - A set of wooden keys, each with its own set of strings to be plucked.
  • Bentside - The curved side of the harpsichord that is held between the player's legs.
  • Case - The wooden frame that holds the strings, jacks, plectrums, soundboard, and keyboard.
  • Pedals - Foot pedals that can be used to change the sound of the harpsichord.
  • Tuning Pins - Metal pins inserted into the soundboard to which the strings are attached.
  • Bridge - A wooden piece that connects the strings to the soundboard.
  • Hammers - Small wooden hammers used to strike the strings and produce sound.

Common questions

  1. What is the difference between a harpsichord and a piano? A harpsichord is a stringed keyboard instrument with plucked strings that produces a distinctively crisp, bright sound. Pianos have strings that are hit by small felt hammers, producing a much warmer sound.
  2. What sizes of harpsichord are available? Harpsichords are generally available in either a single manual (one keyboard) or double manual (two keyboards) format. Single manual harpsichords come in sizes of 4', 5', 7', or 8' octaves, while double manual harpsichords come in sizes of 10' or 12' octaves.
  3. What type of wood is used to make a harpsichord? Harpsichords are typically made of lightweight woods such as cedar, pine, or spruce, and may be decorated with elaborate carvings.
  4. What type of strings are used in a harpsichord? Harpsichords are typically strung with either wire or gut strings, and may be tuned to different pitches depending on the type of music being played.
  5. What type of harpsichord should I buy? The type of harpsichord you should buy will depend on your budget, skill level, and musical preferences. For beginners, a 4' or 5' harpsichord may be a good choice. For more experienced players, a 7' or 8' harpsichord may be more suitable. Professional musicians may want to consider a double manual (two keyboard) harpsichord.

Trivia

The harpsichord is the oldest surviving keyboard instrument. It first appeared in Europe in the 14th century and remained popular until the 19th century. The harpsichord was the primary keyboard instrument of the Baroque era and is renowned for its unique sound. It’s said to have been the favored instrument of 18th century composers Bach and Handel. One funny fact about the harpsichord is that it has been used to imitate other instruments! In the 19th century, composers wrote pieces for the harpsichord which featured an imitation of the sound of a flute, trumpet, guitar, and even a drum! Source: Harpsichord History.

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.