Harpsichord tuning – reliable and expert
A harpsichord is not a piano – it is more sensitive and wants tuning far more often. As a state-certified piano and harpsichord maker I tune your harpsichord reliably, at the pitch your repertoire calls for.
Why a harpsichord wants tuning more often
Unlike a piano, the strings of a harpsichord are not struck but plucked by small quills. Its lighter build makes the instrument more sensitive – it reacts far more strongly to swings in temperature and humidity than a piano does.
Accordingly, a harpsichord needs a fresh tuning more often. Many harpsichordists handle small touch-ups themselves – for a thorough, even tuning of the whole instrument, professional support pays off, especially before concerts or recordings.
Your preferred pitch: from 415 to 440 Hz
Depending on repertoire, harpsichords are played at different pitches – from the baroque pitch of 415 Hz to the modern 440 Hz. I tune your harpsichord in the well-established equal temperament, reliably at the pitch you need.
Whether for playing at home, ensemble work or a performance: you tell me the pitch, and I deliver a cleanly, evenly tuned instrument.
What I offer – and what I don't
I trained as a state-certified piano and harpsichord maker with a specialisation in piano making. Tuning harpsichords is part of my craft – and I offer it with full conviction.
Just as honestly, I will tell you what is not part of my services: historical unequal temperaments (such as Werckmeister or Vallotti) and work on the quills are a specialist field of their own. If your instrument needs such work, I will gladly point you to a dedicated harpsichord specialist – so your instrument gets exactly the hands it needs.
Harpsichord tunings are billed by effort and instrument. Just get in touch – the general pricing overview is here.
View pricingHarpsichord – common questions
Do you tune harpsichords for concerts as well?
Yes. Before concerts or recordings a fresh, precise tuning matters most. I tune your harpsichord reliably to the desired pitch – on request directly at the venue.
Can you tune my harpsichord to 415 Hz?
Of course. 415 Hz is the common baroque pitch. I tune your instrument to 415 Hz, 440 Hz or any other pitch you wish – in equal temperament.
Do you also tune historical temperaments or replace quills?
No – I am upfront about this: unequal historical temperaments and quill work are not part of my services; my training specialised in piano making. For such work I will gladly recommend a dedicated harpsichord specialist.
My harpsichord goes out of tune very quickly – is that normal?
Yes, it lies in the nature of the instrument: harpsichords react sensitively to room climate. A careful tuning plus a few placement tips will noticeably improve stability.
Your harpsichord, cleanly tuned
Regular tuning at home or preparation for a concert – write to me; I tune your harpsichord reliably.