How to change a harpsichord or spinet string ?
Have you broken a string on your French, Flemish, or Italian harpsichord, or perhaps your spinet? Don't panic. While maintaining a harpsichord requires precision, replacing a string is a task that every harpsichordist can master.
Follow this guide for a durable repair and perfect sound quality.
Essential tools :
To perform the repair, ensure you have the following :
- The Stringing Schedule : Of your harpsichord or spinet (to verify the correct material and diameter).
- Replacement Wire : The specific material and gauge required for that note.
- Tuning Hammer : Also known as a tuning key, suited to your instrument's pins.
- Cutting Pliers : For a clean and precise cut of the wire.
Preparation : identification and stringing schedule
Avant de manipuler votre instrument, il est primordial d'identifier la note correspondante.
Consulter le plan de cordage : Chaque instrument possède un tableau de cordage spécifique. Vérifiez pour la note en question:
- Le diamètre exact.
- L'alliage : Acier/fer doux, Laiton jaune ou Laiton rouge.
Replacement steps :
1. Preparing the tapered tuning pin : on a traditionally built harpsichord, the tuning pins are tapered. Turn the pin counter-clockwise to remove it gently without forcing.
2. Hitching the string : hook the loop onto the hitch pin at the back of the case (if needed, place a book on it to hold it in place). Maintain constant tension so the loop does not slip. Guide the string around the cheek of the instrument, keeping it taut. Using the tuning pin hole as a reference, extend the wire about 15 cm past the pinblock before cutting.
3. Winding and installation : thread the wire through the hole in the tuning pin. Wind the string (in the same direction as the other pins) downward along the pin until it reaches its final position in the pinblock.
Tuning and Stabilization of the Pitch :
Verify Alignment: Check the correct positioning of the string against the various pins along the entire length of the instrument (bridge and nut pins).
Resetting the Pin: Place the tuning pin back into its hole. Use your tuning hammer as a mallet to gently tap it down until it reaches the same height as the surrounding pins.
Gradual Tension: Tighten the string progressively until it reaches the correct pitch.
Important Note: Ensure the string sits lower than the level of the nut to maintain proper down-pressure and ensure the stability of the speaking length.