Haydn: Adagio from Sonata #44 Hob. XVI/29 on Clavichord

This is to document the restoration of an historic early modern reproduction clavichord, built ca. 1928 by Maendler-Schramm of Munich, Germany. The current performance is prior to the commencement of restoration; kindly be considerate of the shortcomings of both the instrument and the performer. Thank you.

Category:

Music

Tags:

• Haydn
• Sonata
• Clavichord

[SFChristo]

Ah, thanks for showing me that vibrato comes from the wrist - like a 'cello.

[JLeeGraham]

@SFChristo That's just one way to do it. Some others do it by varying the pressure on the key vertically rather than the way I do it, which as a string player comes most naturally to me. I also prefer the way it sounds my way.

[grafpleyel]

Thank you! Discounting mentioned shortcomings (instrument's condition before restoration) this is really well shaped and enjoyable performance!

[JLeeGraham]

Coming from you, that's an especially generous compliment! I'm honoured. I'm not everything I'd like to be technically, but I do try to make music. Cheers!

[JLeeGraham]

Hello! No, there is no damping felt on the right side of the bridge...not sure if there ever was any. What there is to the left of tangents is very much in need of replacement. I'm looking forward to hearing how this instruments sounds when refurbished - still trying to secure the services of a professional to help. Thanks for the comment.

[paulsausten]

I so much enjoyed this video. I have a loathing of music written for earlier instruments being played on a modern piano, and your performance brought out the clarity of sound of Haydn. I loved the rich bass notes especially! Paul

[JLeeGraham]

Thanks so much! I'm glad you enjoyed it. I'm with you on the "loathing" part; I never play anything written before 1805 on a modern instrument. Just doesn't sound right to me. Only clavichord, harpsichord or fortepiano as appropriate. I'd extend my mania to late Beethoven, Schubert and even Mendelssohn if I had the right instrument. Maybe someday.

[tastogiusto]

sehr schön

[FernandRaynaud]

Wonderful. Thank you. The listing board gives an interesting tone. I have a zuckermann clavichord III and love it. Do you have damping felt on the strings on the right side of the bridge? I sometimes use it, and sometimes let the strings "ring" sympathetically -- very different sound.

[BillBC]

I played a clavichord for years...a Zuckermann kit that I built...lovely instrument...the bebung seemed quite natural, once someone points it out to you. I'm surprised more players don't seem to use it...that's why I commented on your use of it