Mr. Sutphin-
If yours is a Zuckerman kit, Zuckerman Harpsichords <zhi.net> can help with parts and advice.
The Harpsichord Owner's Guide by Kottick is full of information.
There are several Facebook harpsichord groups, and an internet based discussion group <https://jackrail.space>
And there are some good minds in this group, which I am following, Bill. :-)
Kottick's book will give you the terminology for discussion.
For discussion here, the kit company name and some photos would help.
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Ed Sutton
ed440@me.com(980) 254-7413
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Original Message:
Sent: 06-20-2021 13:18
From: Curtis Sutphin
Subject: Harpsichords-To (re)build or to not (re)build?
As an apprentice technician I look for various ways to achieve a successful end result, and to find the way that works best for me and my needs. I do not want to start a superiority complex thread, but instead a thoughtful and deliberately educational discussion on why your way works for you and how.
Long story short:
I absolutely love harpsichords. My mother was a piano major with harpsichord as her secondary instrument, and I was fortunate enough to find a harpsichord, built in a build your own kit, for free that I got. Alas, I am at a stand still with figuring out what exactly to do to fix the issues. The owner provided me with excess jack, plectra, wire, and tools to fix it (he just didn't want to). Are there any good books/manuals on how to basically build a harpsichord from scratch, since this would be the basis of how to rebuild this neglected instrument I have.
In my area (Vancouver, WA/Portland, OR) I can't seem to find anyone that is even willing to work on a harpsichord. Which is sad, because so many churches in the area own harpsichords and can't use them because of the lack of technicians to work on them.
I am open to any suggestions, book recommendations, blueprints, ideas, anything really.
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Curtis S.
Technician Apprentice
Michelle's Piano Company
Portland
Oregon
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