Harpsichord

Due to its exceptional rhythmic clarity and precise tuning, the harpsichord has flourished as an ideal instrument, positioned at the core of Baroque musical practices. These practices are intricately linked to a specific period characterized by meticulous methods, themselves born from precise aesthetic and philosophical conceptions. Rooted in the foundations of neo-Platonism cultivated in the preceding era, these practices have matured to fruition.

The harpsichord's innate connection to the music of its era is evident in its most distinct characteristics. This intrinsic link explains why the instrument fell out of use when musical styles evolved. Consequently, despite its wealth in an extensive repertoire of the highest artistic quality and immense historical significance, the harpsichord has reached us without an established tradition or usage instructions. Our knowledge about it, depending on the perspective, is as accessible as it is elusive. This circumstance creates an open field for exploration, abundance, and invention—a realm of creative freedom that is vibrantly alive. It stands in stark contrast to the imposing mass of great examples, whose overwhelming conformity can weigh heavily on the aspirations of young modern instrumentalists.

Nevertheless, there exists an urgent imperative to reinstate the harpsichord to its rightful prominence. If young harpsichordists were to cease their engagement with the repertoire, it would be akin to a world where Beethoven, Chopin, Schubert, and others were no longer heard—an unsettling and nonsensical scenario. It is the responsibility of every harpsichordist to actively champion the instrument and do so persuasively, ensuring its enduring presence and appreciation.

We must continuously refine and reinvent the playing techniques that were forgotten with the disappearance of our instrument. It is imperative to comprehend and adeptly employ all its distinct qualities, mastering them to their fullest extent. Through relentless dedication, we strive to envisage the remarkable skill and artistry exhibited by exceptional figures such as J.S. Bach, D. Scarlatti, F. Couperin, J. Bull, G. Frescobaldi, J. Ph. Rameau, and countless others.

The harpsichord can be likened to a lute, guitar, or harp. It stands as the singular stringed instrument with a keyboard that offers direct control over sound emission. Through a straightforward mechanism, the harpsichordist's finger initiates contact with the string before its play, maintaining that contact throughout the sound's attack. Logically, it is the most opulent and potentially expressive among all musical instruments. Our endeavor is to master the string, necessitating control over the speed of our fingers and the exploration of every conceivable color and tone. To achieve this mastery, we must learn the finesse of playing a light keyboard flawlessly, tuning and adjusting our instrument to unlock its full potential. Through ceaseless practice and exploration, we discover playing techniques that are not only effective but also personally beneficial. As we put these techniques into practice, we create harmony within our bodies, hearts, and minds. Our music, in turn, becomes not only beneficial but also useful. Our task then is to seize the creative fields available to the performer and invest them to their full potential.

Teaching the harpsichord involves imparting the highest standards and utmost discernment in the exploration and mastery of effective, precise playing techniques, coupled with a deep understanding of historical and organological knowledge. It also entails fostering the development of robust personal creativity through the profound respect for instruments and texts.