What is a harpsichord?
Q: What is a harpsichord?
A: A harpsichord is a keyboard instrument that produces sound by having the strings plucked with a plectrum.
Q: How does it differ from a clavichord?
A: On a clavichord, the strings are hit to produce sound, whereas on a harpsichord they are plucked with a plectrum.
Q: How does playing the piano compare to playing the harpsichord?
A: On the piano, it is possible to play louder or quieter by playing the keys with more or less force. However, on a harpsichord this volume cannot be controlled in this way and instead relies on different "stops" for varying sounds.
Q: What were some of the smaller types of harpsichords called?
A: Smaller types of harpsichords were sometimes referred to as "virginals" and "spinets". Virginals were often played by young girls and spinets could be picked up and put on tables.
Q: When was the harpsichord popularly used in music?
A: Harpsichords were very important in music from Renaissance and Baroque periods. They were used both as solo instruments and accompaniments for orchestras.
Q: Who wrote The Well-Tempered Clavier?
A: Johann Sebastian Bach wrote The Well-Tempered Clavier which has preludes and fugues in every major and minor key.
Q: What was its purpose?
A: It is said that Bach wrote this collection of music to demonstrate how keyboard instruments like the harpsichord can be tuned so that they can play in any key.
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