clavecin

Clavecin, or harpsichord, is a keyboard instrument that plucks its strings rather than striking them. When a key is pressed, a jack rises and a plectrum plucks the corresponding string, producing a bright, incisive tone. The instrument’s dynamics are largely constant, with expressive nuance derived from articulation, repertoire, and registration rather than touch alone.

Origin and forms: The harpsichord emerged in Italy in the 16th century and spread across Europe. It developed into various shapes and sizes, including the grand harpsichord, the virginal and the spinet. French makers produced two-manual instruments with contrasting tunings, while English and Flemish traditions emphasized compact designs. The double manual allowed different timbral combinations and melodies to be played on one instrument.

Construction and sound: Strings are typically plucked by quills or metal plectra mounted on wooden jacks. Most harpsichords have 4 to 5 octaves, though larger models extend to six. The soundboard and lid shape influence tone; metal strings give a bright timbre, while wooden frames yield more muted color. Some instruments have two keyboards (manuals) and a control to couple them.

History and repertoire: Harpsichords enjoyed peak use in the Baroque era, supporting solo works and continuo in ensembles. Composers such as J.S. Bach, Domenico Scarlatti, François Couperin and Jean-Philippe Rameau wrote extensively for the instrument. The instrument declined with the rise of the piano but saw renewed interest in the 20th century with the early music revival.

Makers and tuning: Notable historical builders include the Flemish Ruckers family and later French masters such as Pascal Taskin, as well as German builder Gottfried Silbermann. Modern performances commonly use A = 440 Hz, though period temperaments and tunings (e.g., around A = 415 Hz) are used to match historical styles.