Wittmayer 2 Manual Concert Harpsichord 921908

This is a modern harpsichord made in Germany with 2 five octave keyboards. It has 4 ranks (sets of strings). So you can get deep 16-foot up to 4-foot stops (like on an organ) for rich, complex sounds in 3 different octaves. More than that, this instrument allows for deep expression not available on most harpsichords This is because most harpsichords can only change tone with the hand operated levers (or stops). This instrument as 2 hand levers as well as 6 pedals. So, you can change the sound while you are playing without interrupting the music.

The foot pedals and levers function as follows from left to right:

Pedals:

1. Bottom manual – 8 foot stop
2. Bottom manual – 16 foot stop
3. (Middle pedal) This links the 2 keyboards together, so they both play from the bottom manual.
4. Top manual – 4 foot stop
5. Top manual – 8 foot stop

Levers:

Left: Bottom manual – lute stop for 16 foot stop (This places felt next to the string for a staccato sound.)

Right: Bottom manual – lute stop for 8 foot stop

The great Wanda Landowska catapulted the harpsichord to fame with her historic performances on harpsichords with pedals. The expressive playing thrilled audiences and created a resurgence in interest in the harpsichord. The harpsichord has a new set of 16-foot strings for a very rich tone. It also comes with the dolly pictured to easily move it on stage or in your home.

This instrument has a robust tone. So, it is appropriate for use in ensembles in larger spaces. It is also a very attractive instrument to behold. You can own a little bit of history and get to hear an authentic sound in your early period music.