Replacing Harpsichord Strings
Woo-ee, replacing harpsichord strings is probably one of my least favorite things to do on the instrument. The sound of a breaking string strikes fear in my heart and jarrs the ears. In fact, I heard the sound of a breaking string on a video today and it almost gave me a heart attack.
On the harpsichord list, there has been a discussion about old style pins vs. zither pins. I am very much a fan of old style pins and find them easier to deal with when it comes to replacing strings. Oh, I can handle both, but I feel clumsier with zither pins (which used to be ubiquitous, but are not so much these days). I am comfortable with old style pins that have holes or not, thanks to quality instruction early on. I do remember the first time I tried to change a string (before I was taught how) and it was a nightmare - horrible! Glad I was finally taught how to do it right.
Are you curious how to change a string on an old style pin? Well, here is an instructional video to assist you in learning how! YouTube user hpschdnu (AKA Carey Beebe from Australia) has posted a number of instructional videos on the elements of harpsichord upkeep. Very helpful! Many thanks.
7 comments:
Hello,
I found your blog while searching "Harpsichord Strings New York". Interesting stuff! Where do you find replacement harpsichord strings in New York? I broke a string on my 60s Baldwin Electric Harpsichord--any help would be appreciated. You can email me directly at joe@joemcginty.com
Hi There,
I'm currently repairing a baldwin Harpsichord, one of the strings needs replacing, it's actually two as one string services two notes, the string gauge is .38mm/.015" any information would be great,
thanks
Pete
If you know the string gage and material (IE iron, brass, red brass) you can order strings from any reputable harpsichord maker of builder, say
zuckermann in Stoning ton, Ct.
If you don't know the gage you can go to a hardware store and buy a wire gage tool.
I forgot to mention that I remember seeing the Baldwin Harpsichord in their New York showroom a very many years ago. I would be interested in hearing how it sounds.
At that time I hadn't bought my first harpsichord so I didn't pay attention to things such as was it double strung, ie 2x8 of 1/8+1x4
I am really curious to see this instrument.
I an not anonymous. That was an error.
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I an not anonymous. That was an error.
You can find me on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/joseph.alfano.9
Thanks for getting back to me. I did find strings from Zuckerman. I have the manual for the Baldwin, so I knew which gauge to get.
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