Harpsichord
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The Harpsichord is a stringed keyboard instrument in which the strings are plucked by tiny quills (feathers). This gives the harpsichord a sharp, incisive sound. This horizontal harp-shaped instrument was popular in Europe from the late 15th century. It was used as both a solo and accompanying instrument and also played an important part in the orchestra.
| Family |
| Keyboards |
| Pitch range |
| Four octaves or more. |
| Material |
| Wooden case, brass or iron strings, and quill or leather plectra. |
| Size |
| 6 ft (1.80 m) long,. 35 in (89 cm) wide, 536 in (91 cm) high. |
| Origins |
| The harpsichord probably originated from a keyboard adaptation of the psaltery, and dates back to the late 14th century in Europe. |
| Classification |
| Chordophone: an instrument that produces its sound by the vibration of strings. |
| And also... |
| The quills are fixed into jacks which stand on the end of each key. They are called jacks because they jump up when the key is depressed. |
