Forum
T
he Shed expressed interest in an
article on a clavichord which I
designed and built from scratch
when I think the only power tool I had
was a very original 1960 Black & Decker
(which, in those days, meant only a
quarter-inch electric drill).
Accompanying this article is a picture
of the clavichord, which I recently took
apart and rebuilt but that refurbishment
is a separate story.
Designing and making a clavichord
involves a variety of disciplines,
starting with brief background theory
followed by experiments to work out
a design, selection of materials, then
construction and problem-solving.Stored in an attic
,OHDUQHGDELWZLWKPDNLQJWKLVÀUVW
one, and thought I might improve on it,
so gave it to my brother, working, but
with no case.
Soon afterwards, he found a lovely
antique square piano and then later
inherited the family Steinway grand
piano as well. Recently he asked me,
“What should I do with clavi?” It had
been in his attic for 30 years!
Some of the glues had failed anda major part had warped. I decided
to rescue it, so brought it home and
restored it. I am pleased with the result.
It is probably as good as its successor
(both have had favourable comments
from an expert keyboard maker). The
design of both which I developed is
unique among clavichords — and I
think more interesting.A basic instrument
I have always been interested in music,
particularly classical music.
As a student I saw a clavichord and
was captivated by it. This is the most