The harpsichord is the most important keyboard instrument of the Baroque. In this instrument the string is not hit, as is the case with the piano, instead it is being picked by a nail. The shape of the instrument is dictated by the placing of the strings, and its look resembles that of a small grand piano. The instrument often has several manuals - keyboards - which differ in sound.

The sound of the harpsichord is not very powerful and is easily drowned out by larger and more powerful orchestral texture. Much softer playing technique is used compared to the piano.

Recommended combinations:

The harpsichord with a wood wind
The harpsichord with harp
The harpsichord with strings

Listen to the audio samples:

Melody (333 KB)
Half damp (132 KB)
Full damp (66 KB)