Topmusicanswers
- Why was the harpsichord important?
- What type of instrument is a harpsichord?
- Why was the harpsichord so popular?
- How many notes are in a harpsichord?
Why was the harpsichord important?
Harpsichord, keyboard musical instrument in which strings are set in vibration by plucking. It was one of the most important keyboard instruments in European music from the 16th through the first half of the 18th century.
What type of instrument is a harpsichord?
The harpsichord is a keyboard instrument in which the strings are plucked, rather than hit with a hammer (which is the mechanism for the piano, a more recent development). The distinctive sound of the harpsichord creates an almost immediately association with the baroque era.
Why was the harpsichord so popular?
The harpsichord was widely used in Renaissance and Baroque music, both as an accompaniment instrument and as a soloing instrument. During the Baroque era, the harpsichord was a standard part of the continuo group. The basso continuo part acted as the foundation for many musical pieces in this era.
How many notes are in a harpsichord?
Before the piano, composers in the Renaissance and Baroque periods composed for the harpsichord. The harpsichord is a 60 key instrument that relies on a plectrum to strike the internal strings, as opposed to a felt hammer on a contemporary piano. As such, the harpsichord limited the range of music to an even 5 octaves.
