Discovering the harpsichord's hidden charms

For many, the harpsichord conjures images of cobwebbed mansions (The Simpsons Treehouse of Horror episodes) or the iconic theme song of the Addams family. Justin Luchinski, harpsichordist and self-proclaimed revivalist of early music, is on a mission to dispel these spooky myths and reignite appreciation for this historic instrument.

In April's season finale of Instrumental Stories, an ongoing partnership between CBC Calgary and the Calgary Public Library, the intimate Alexander Calhoun room at the Memorial Park Library resonated with the bright, plucked melodies of a harpsichord. 

A regal past, a bright future

The harpsichord wasn't always relegated to spooky soundtracks. From the 1400s to the 1700s, it reigned supreme, a mainstay in European music for over 350 years. 

"I feel like Indiana Jones," says Justin. "I am finding old manuscripts that haven't been touched in a while and bringing them to life through concerts like this."

"Beyond Handel's Messiah - there's a wealth of music people just don't know," says Justin. "To hear it used in its proper context, on the proper instruments - it's important for me to bring this to life. Interesting discoveries are out there. Here I am over a decade later, still championing this wonderful instrument." 

A delightfully different instrument

Harpsichord, then pianoforte and then piano. Pianos might dominate as the victor, but the instrument owes its predecessor a gracious nod. 

Luchinski's performance wasn't just about showcasing the harpsichord's beautiful looks and sound, it was a journey into showing off an appreciation for the differences making the harpsichord unique. 

This involved improvising harmonies and embellishments, breathing new life into rarely-heard compositions.

Harpsichords are plucked, not played. Although they both have strings, the piano is a percussion instrument, with strings struck by a mallet when the keys are played. The harpsichord is a true string instrument with the strings plucked like a guitar. When the front of the key is pressed, the back of the key rises, a component called a jack is lifted, and a plectrum plucks the string. Once the key is released, the note is gone. 

Monotone in its delivery, the harpsichord has a surprisingly light touch. Volume is derived from trills and frills added into the music, improvised by the musician. The sheet music is written as a playing guide for the musician, who then can fulfill the playing of the manuscript - flourishes, ornamentation or decorating the notes – all ways to add panache and volume while playing.

And, to our delight, Justin added many, many flourishes, trills, and ornamentation, showing off the versatility of the instrument.

The harpsichord's charm extends beyond its historical significance and unique sound. Unlike its bulky piano cousin, the harpsichord is surprisingly portable. With a clever design, its legs detach, transforming the instrument into a manageable package. 

As Justin revealed during the Q&A session hosted by CBC's Tarik Robinson, "The legs come off, and it all fits snugly into my Subaru Forester. No passengers allowed, but the harpsichord and I make a great team!"

The final concert of Instrumental Stories second season resonated not just with the music itself, but with Luchinski's infectious enthusiasm. His performance was a masterclass in both historical preservation and artistic interpretation, proving the harpsichord is far from a dusty relic. 

It is a vibrant instrument with a rich history and a captivating sound, waiting to be rediscovered.

Find Justin's next concert at JustinLuchinski.com.