Room 67--Historical boundaries!

The harpsichord was the precursor of the piano. The primary differences between the two instruments is that: 1) the strings on a harpsichord are plucked; those on a piano are struck by hammers; 2) the sounding of a key on a harpsichord only continues while the key is being physically held down; the sounding of a key on a piano may be sustained by depressing the right-hand foot pedal, which lifts all dampers off the strings; and 3) the dynamics on a harpsichord are very limited because no matter how forcefully you strike a key, the string will sound a single dynamic level; on a piano, a gentle touch produces a soft sound, and a more violent striking of the key makes a louder sound.

The appearance of the two instruments is also different. The harpsichord may have two keyboards, which may be coupled to produce a louder sound. The body of the instrument may be carved or painted in artistic ways. Although pianos can be slightly different, the general appearance is a basic black.

Now to the point of this room, the blurring of historical boundaries.

English composer John Rutter (b. 1945) has created a great deal of popular sacred music and his ensemble, the Collegium Singers, has recorded many albums of his appealing style. In his composition, Suite Antique for Flute, Harpsichord, and Strings, he gives a 17th century sound to his music by the usage of the harpsichord. Here are some samples of the result.

Listen to the Waltz Movement

Listen to the Rondeau Movement

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