Peter Smalley Peter Smalley Harpsichord and Early Keyboard Instruments

Instruments

Flemish instruments
In the 17th Century, Flemish instruments, typified by those of the Ruckers family from Antwerp, were very highly prized. Many examples exist today - along with many modified by later makers. Originally, these instruments had a relatively small compass of around 4 octaves but, in line with the practice of the 18th Century makers, I offer versions with a larger compass up to 5 octaves.

see Flemish instruments

 


French instruments

Towards the end of the 18th Century these rich sounding and richly decorated instruments represented the height of harpsichord making in Europe.  Most instruments have 2 manuals, a full 5 octave compass and a comprehensive range of registers.


see French instruments


 

Italian Harpsichord  by Jerome de Zentis  (Rome, 1658)Other instruments

I have studied, and have drawings of, several instruments from other countries (notably Germany, Italy and England) and would be happy to discuss requirements for these.