Is the action stagger a new thing or has it been around fro ages sinse the 17th century? Also I don't see how the action stagger is supposed to work when playing normally? Do you keep getting three notes when you just want one?
When the note is played at normal speed, the separation of the various plucks isn't noticed. Stagger is essential to the correct operation of the action. It's next to impossible to play a harpsichord without it: The touch is far too heavy if all the plucks coincide.
Excellent demonstration!
Braybaroque 6 months ago
Great video! .. in the french/flemish single with two unison (2x8'), wath is the stagger order? Quill first front or back?
ahlborner 2 years ago
Thank you: Normally the back 8´ is followed by the front 8´. There must always be some keydip after the last pluck for comfort of playing.
hpschdnu 2 years ago
Your really a great harpsichord and historical music educator! preesh!
danofsydney 3 years ago
Thanks: Yes, A392, a tone below "modern" pitch.
hpschdnu 4 years ago
Great topic, clearly and succinctly presented. And this harpsichord is tuned at approximately A=392?
thebpl 4 years ago
how old is that
organmaster89 4 years ago
The featured instrument is a French Double after Blanchet, Carey Beebe Elève de D. Jacques Way 1991.
hpschdnu 4 years ago
Is the action stagger a new thing or has it been around fro ages sinse the 17th century? Also I don't see how the action stagger is supposed to work when playing normally? Do you keep getting three notes when you just want one?
matteylemage 4 years ago
When the note is played at normal speed, the separation of the various plucks isn't noticed. Stagger is essential to the correct operation of the action. It's next to impossible to play a harpsichord without it: The touch is far too heavy if all the plucks coincide.
hpschdnu 4 years ago