THE SOUND OF MUSIC

The 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

I learned a bit with making this first 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 and a 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 basic of keyboard instruments and was what the early composers used