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Blanchet
A new harpsichord just left the workshop, which was constructed after the model of Blanchet, family of harpsichord makers in Paris for almost a hundred years during the 18. century.
It reflects a long evolution of building traditions throughout Europe, shifting from 17 ct. french type of cases to the stirdier flemish models from Antwerp. Those allowing for all kinds of alterations of disposition and decor, according to modern french taste.
These instruments, aristocracy`s signature in the 18.century, were given much effort to show up in elegance. Nevertheless, modern reproductions rarely mirror the charme of antique instruments. The typical decor with black and vermillion, framed by bands of goldleaf, an elaborate soundbord painting (after Hemsch,1754) and the Louis XIV stand with eight conical legs bring in a lot of original elements. For personal taste, colours have been accompanied by wooden sections with french walnut, like
for the stand and the musicdesk.
Such decorative features need to be matched by quality of tone and touch. As for all of my instruments, a strong and lively, pure and articulate sound radiates from this harpsichord, based on superb materials and the mature designs of french makers in the 18. century.
Technical data:
Layout based on Blanchet instruments between 1715 and 1765
Disposition 8’ 4’ 8’ registers + Lutestop. Compass FF- f3.
Diapasons 392/415/44o Hz Length 236 cm Width 94 cm
Weight without stand: 65 kg
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Thank you for contribution of various kinds, to:
Elisabeth Engelbrecht, Winsen a.d.Luhe, soundboard painting. Malcolm Rose, strings. Karl-Heinz Davids, tuning pins. Adam Swainson, jacks. David Law, brassware. Pascal Gourrat, bone for keyboards. Jean-Charles Minet, covers. Peter Saar, expertise in gilding. Jens Dreßler, Internet-assistance.
Special thanks to David Ley, harpsichord maker in Switzerland, for insight in conception and for artistic advice.
To Sabine Hoffmann in the very last moment, to Lucy and Lilly.
Construction in 2o1o/2o11
Acquired in 2o11 by Folkwang Universität der Künste, Essen and Duisburg, Germany |
   
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