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The harpsichord, with its plucking action, probably
appeared late in the 14th century. The oldest known surviving one
dates from about 1485. It can come in a variety of forms. The
grand harpsichord, through various combinations of its multiple
sets of strings, registers and stops, can produce a variety of sounds which
permit the player to alter the tonal color of movements and pieces according
to his or her interpretations. The more compact forms of the virginal
harpsichord and the spinet harpsichord usually have just one
set of strings, but offer reduced size and weight along with quicker maintenance
and lower purchase cost.
For more information about harpsichords please see the “About” section.
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