The Evolution of the Piano: The Harpsichord

The harpsichord, another predecessor to the piano, has a rich history and a unique sound. It was especially popular during the 16th and 17th centuries. It likely evolved from earlier stringed instruments like the psaltery (a wooden instrument with strings stretched across) and the dulcimer.

The instrument’s sound comes from plucking strings using a mechanism called a jack and plectrum. Each key is connected to a jack, which lifts when the key is pressed, causing the plectrum to pluck the string.

However, because strings are plucked, the harpsichord lacks dynamics. No matter how hard or soft the key is pressed, the dynamics (volume) will not change. This limits the instrument’s expressive range.

During the Renaissance and Baroque periods, the harpsichord was a very popular instrument across Europe, and was a favorite of composers like Bach. It was used often in courts, churches, theater, and opera.

The harpsichord has two keyboards placed over each other, which impacted the design of organs and synthesizers. The layout also influenced the modern piano keyboard.

When pianos came around in the 18th century, the harpsichord’s use slowly declined in popularity.