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.

I'm Back

I've decided to re-ignite this blog.

Since I posted last... I took some time off, got a regular job, and am going to return to playing the harpsichord this fall/winter.  It has been an interesting and illuminating time away from the instrument.  I hope to share some of what I've learned, here.

Meanwhile, my harpsichord is sitting on its side in the back bedroom.  It may stay there for another month, we'll see.

I've left up any musically-relevant posts, so a lot of what you are seeing is quite old.  It's fun to look back, though.