Peeter Talve. Harpsichords and Clavichords.

German Single Manual Harpsichord after Vater

The other German single is based on an example dated 1738 by the Hanover maker Christian Vater. Vater is primarily known as an organ maker who worked with the renowned Arp Schnitger. However, like some of his organ building colleagues, he had a lively trade in making harpsichords of the modest type such as the 1738 instrument. This harpsichord is disposed with two unison 8' stops. The range is GG-d'" chromatic, and therefore is perfect for almost all the solo works of Vater's contemporary, J. S. Bach. The scale of this instrument is relatively short, like that of most Italian harpsichords, and therefore is strung throughout with brass. This lends the instrument remarkable tuning stability and pungent tonal quality so desired for orchestral and small ensemble performance. This harpsichord is pitched at a‘=415 Hz in the normal position and may be transposed upward a semitone to modern concert pitch (a’=440 Hz).

Although a great deal of exceptional German harpsichord music is left to us, especially the music of J.S. Bach, very few German harpsichords have survived into modern times.

Rather than traceable national traditions, German harpsichord making was more closely tied to the individual maker or family, and their style of building.

If you have an interest in a particular German harpsichord, please do not hesitate to inquire.

		Main Workshop Instruments - Ruckers - Hemsch - Vater - Bentside Spinet - Clavichord Contacts
	German Single Manual Harpsichord after Vater The other German single is based on an example dated 1738 by the Hanover maker Christian Vater. Vater is primarily known as an organ maker who worked with the renowned Arp Schnitger. However, like some of his organ building colleagues, he had a lively trade in making harpsichords of the modest type such as the 1738 instrument. This harpsichord is disposed with two unison 8' stops. The range is GG-d'" chromatic, and therefore is perfect for almost all the solo works of Vater's contemporary, J. S. Bach. The scale of this instrument is relatively short, like that of most Italian harpsichords, and therefore is strung throughout with brass. This lends the instrument remarkable tuning stability and pungent tonal quality so desired for orchestral and small ensemble performance. This harpsichord is pitched at a‘=415 Hz in the normal position and may be transposed upward a semitone to modern concert pitch (a’=440 Hz). Although a great deal of exceptional German harpsichord music is left to us, especially the music of J.S. Bach, very few German harpsichords have survived into modern times. Rather than traceable national traditions, German harpsichord making was more closely tied to the individual maker or family, and their style of building. If you have an interest in a particular German harpsichord, please do not hesitate to inquire.