Restoration of a Zuckermann Harpsichord

The harpsichord is a keyboard instrument that creates sound using a plucked string. Originating in the 14th century, it is often considered a precursor to the piano and is often used in reproductions of early music. The sound of a harpsichord is distinct due to the many overtones produced, but the way these vibrations are produced is not well understood. This is a reflection of how the theoretical acoustics of an instrument differ from how the instrument behaves in reality. I will use the repair of a harpsichord as an opportunity to analyze its design and the mechanics behind the instrument. The main structure of the harpsichord on which I will work is in good condition, but many of the internal parts and strings are missing or broken. As I repair these parts, I will perform tests on their behavior and compare the results to the theoretical acoustics of the instrument.
I have divided the parts of a harpsichord into three systems: the plucking mechanism, made up of the keys, jacks, and plectra; the soundboard; and the strings. The keys function as levers, which lift the jacks inside the harpsichord when they are pressed. The plectra are at the top of the jacks and pluck the strings when the jacks are lifted. When the keys are released and the jacks move back down, the damper cloths mute the strings. The pitch created by a string is affected by the string's length, diameter, tension, and density. In harpsichords, strings get thinner and shorter as the pitch rises. The lower-pitched strings can be made of brass and the higher strings are often made of steel or iron, which have a lower density than brass. The vibrations are transferred from the strings to the soundboard, which magnifies the sound and determines the overtones. Using these principles, I will analyze each system of the harpsichord as I repair it. This includes measuring the lengths of the strings and determining their material, finding the best shape for the plectra, and measuring the vibrations of the soundboard.