Thomas Ciul Harpsichords and FortePianos
Harpsichords, Spinets, Virginals, Clavichords and Fortepianos
Italian Single Harpsichord Designed by Thomas Ciul

This is a small Italian style harpsichord inspired by an original instrument in the Sterns Collection of the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. This harpsichord is ideal as a continuo instrument. It has a wonderfully clear, clean, bright sound that carries well in an ensemble. Small size and low weight make it highly portable. It is in the False Inner/Outer style, that is, there appears to be a cypress instrument inside a painted case with lid. Of course, this instrument is perfect for the earlier harpsichord repertoire.

Being single strung makes less tension on the soundboard helping to create a rich tone. Brass stringing makes a sweet and warm voice.

Specifications:

Single Manual

Compass: C to d'' (51 notes) Transposes to A 415 or A 440
Registers: 1x8
Soundboard: sitka spruce
Strung in: red brass, yellow brass
Keyboard materials: Cherry naturals, oak sharps
Voiced in Celcon plectra
Design/Decoration: False Inner/Outer Italian
Case: Red exterior, Cypress "inner"
Keywell: Cypress
Stand: Turned legs
Weight: Approx. 65 lbs, stand approx. 16 lbs.
Dimensions: 34 by 88" by 9"

Designed and built by Thomas Ciul after an anonymous original in the Sterns Collection, University of Michigan

Price: $11,000 USD

option for 2x8' $13,000 USD

Rental Fee for Professional performance: $500 USD
Local Transportation and 2 tunings included

updated July 16, 2008