Harpsichord: meaning, definitions and examples
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harpsichord
[ ˈhɑːpsɪkɔːrd ]
musical instrument
A harpsichord is a keyboard instrument that produces sound by plucking strings with quills or plectra. It was popular in the Baroque period and is known for its unique sound and expressive capabilities.
Synonyms
Baroque instrument, harpsichord instrument, keyboard instrument
Examples of usage
- The harpsichord was widely used in the 16th and 17th centuries.
- She played a beautiful piece on the harpsichord at the concert.
- Baroque composers like Bach and Handel wrote many pieces for the harpsichord.
- The harpsichord has a bright and crisp sound compared to the piano.
- Listening to the harpsichord can transport you back to the elegant music of the past.
Translations
Translations of the word "harpsichord" in other languages:
🇵🇹 cravo
🇮🇳 हार्पसीकोर्ड
🇩🇪 Cembalo
🇮🇩 harpsichord
🇺🇦 клавесин
🇵🇱 klawesyn
🇯🇵 チェンバロ
🇫🇷 clavecin
🇪🇸 clavicémbalo
🇹🇷 klavsen
🇰🇷 쳄발로
🇸🇦 هاربسكورد
🇨🇿 cembalo
🇸🇰 cembalo
🇨🇳 大键琴
🇸🇮 čembalo
🇮🇸 hörpuharpsikord
🇰🇿 клавесин
🇬🇪 კლავესინი
🇦🇿 klavesin
🇲🇽 clavicémbalo
Word origin
The harpsichord has a rich history dating back to the late Middle Ages. It evolved from the psaltery, an ancient stringed instrument. By the Renaissance period, the harpsichord had gained popularity in Europe, especially among the nobility. Its design and construction underwent various developments over the centuries, leading to the instrument we recognize today. The harpsichord reached its peak during the Baroque era, with composers like Bach and Scarlatti composing masterpieces for it. While the popularity of the harpsichord waned with the rise of the piano in the Classical period, it continues to be appreciated for its unique timbre and historical significance.