Harpsichord
The harpsichord is a musical instrument that was created during the Middle Ages and was a keyboard of sorts; when the keys are pressed, a string within the instrument is plucked (“harp”).
France and Italy began to produce these instruments in the 1500s, and by the mid 1700s harpsichord creators were able to further enhance these instruments in various ways. Several strings could be played at once, and some companies began manufacturing harpsichords with two keyboards, that could be played simultaneously. Blanchett as well as Pascal Taskin are still considered the greatest names in the production of harpsichords today, although they were created within the 1700s. Many modern instruments are crafted after these first-rate harpsichords, and original instruments of these two names are considered highly collectible today. Harpsichords were also often used for ballet suites, as well as operas, and even upper-class families learned to play them for the sole purpose of entertainment.
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By the end of the 18th century, it seems that harpsichords were being phased out, and instead being replaced by pianos, disappearing for a large portion of the following centuries. However, by the 20th century harpsichords came back onto the music scene. Even today, many modern musicians use harpsichords while both recording tracks and playing live shows.
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