The
strings are plucked by a quill which rises when a key is depressed. Harpsichords
vary in size and construction, but the standard two-manual instrument
has two sets of strings tuned in octaves on the upper keyboard, and two
or three sets on the lower keyboard. Foot pedals and couplers allow different
combinations of strings to be engaged.
Range
This
is the range of the modern instrument. Historical ranges may vary.
Comments
The harpsichord
is of course a standard instrument in Baroque music, and has made
a comeback in the 20th Century. It is quiet, so amplification may
be necssary in a large orchestral context.
