A page on harpsichords and clavichords
Instruments I have built:
French C17th 2x8' "Junior"
- Built 1994-1996
- Restrung with Birkett wire 2021
- Fitted with Norm Purdy wood jacks in 2021 as well
- Handsome cherry wood case work. Very stable tuning
- Ideal for Chambonnieres and L. Couperin
Italian Virginal VIII build
Italian III build
Zuckermann King of Sweden Clavichord build:
Some notes:
[1]
Mind out when sanding bottom board to keep sanding block square to the case sides,
to keep the bottom edges square.The bottom board is of much softer wood
than the case sides.
[2] The
tuning pin holes cannot be drilled without a long aircraft drill which is
not supplied. Some irregularity of hole angle can be tolerated, but the
clearance between the pin heads is quite small so angle consistency is
especially important.
[3]
It is hard to judge the fore-and-aft position of the tangents on the
keys. To some degree this depends on the action depth arrived at.
I made all mine a bit close to the key heads.
Here is the finished King of Sweden double fretted clavichord:
Adventures in resurrecting an old Burton harpsichord:
See these Facebook group postings:
- https://www.facebook.com/groups/604659270857221 September 24th 2025
- https://www.facebook.com/groups/604659270857221 September 25th 2025
I can supply more written notes, more detailed advice, and files for 3d
printing, in case anyone else wants to do something similar.
Harpsichord advice and tuning:
Based on my modest skills building my own harpsichords, and regulating
and tuning these and other harpsichords I have some ability to help
others with minor harpsichord repairs and maintenance. I can help with
installing new strings, requilling & voicing and tunings. I have
tuned for professional performing groups in the area. I am not equipped
for major structural repairs or restorations, and will not take on
projects beyond my abilities.
Contact me via the home page contact form.