Pianotech

  • 1.  Moving a harpsichord

    Posted 05-29-2015 09:58
    This message has been cross posted to the following Discussions: Susan's Circle and Pianotech .
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    Hello All:

    One of my piano clients who also has a harpsichord is donating the instrument to a University where they 'winter' in Arizona.  We live in Wisconsin.  He asked me what the best way would be to get it there.  They are considering putting it in the back of their car and bringing it in the hotels at night when the go south in the fall.

    I'm looking for any and all ideas.  I told him how hard this move will be on it just from going from one climate to another completely opposite.  

    I have no experience with harpsichords.  Any advice appreciated.

    Thank you;

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    Pamela Bero
    Appleton WI
    920-731-2522
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  • 2.  RE: Moving a harpsichord

    Posted 05-29-2015 11:47
    What kind of harpsichord? How long is it? ------------------------------------------- Ed Sutton Editor Piano Technicians Journal ed440@me.com 704-536-7926 -------------------------------------------
    Original Message


  • 3.  RE: Moving a harpsichord

    Posted 05-30-2015 07:23
    Hello Pamela - a few years ago I was asked by Glyndebourne to take their 2-manual Goble Harpsichord from Glyndebourne Opera House in Sussex to the Barbican in London where they, with the LPO & Simon Rattle, were to give a performance. I tuned that instrument for years. Took the passenger seat out of my estate car and it slid in perfectly - sharp end forward. The leg/pedal unit dismantles and fitted in as well. Afterwards I had to return it to Glyndebourne but had two extra passengers - heavy instrument movers for the Orchestra who were stuck without transport. Poor little car! All that weight - a wonder the springs didn't give!  Now the Goble is a Big 7' Harpsichord with 7 pedals all of which means moving them is no great shakes. Unlike a piano they don't have a heavy cast frame. Two people can handle it. Can't say anything about a humidity problem you might experience over there but the worst that can happen is the jacks and guide rails getting stuck. We, of course, didn't have that sort of problem . . . .   Michael  UK

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    Michael Gamble
    semi retired 
    Brighton
    01273813612
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    Original Message