TPW Hemsch French Double Harpsichord

Instrument conceived & designed by Marc Ducornet & Emmanuel Danset
Copyright © 2024 CBH & TPW
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THE PARIS WORKSHOP

Early Keyboard Instruments for professional and amateur builders

Instruments à clavier de facture historique pour facteurs professionnels et amateurs


This instrument is made in the grand tradition of the large French harpsichords of the 18th-century. Inspired by the surviving instruments of Henri Hemsch, the tone of our French Double is full of color and nuance, with a majestic bass. While the range of 63 notes permits performance of virtually the entire harpsichord repertoire, this instrument is obviously the best choice for playing the late French music.

Our photograph shows the current model on the optional Louis XVI-style table stand.

Hemsch French Double 48K jpeg

SPECIFICATIONS
Range 63 notes: FF–g''', transposable A392/A415/A440
Disposition 2x8⁠´, 1x4⁠´, buff
stop levers in keywell
Wood Case in lime
Bentside either in solid lime, or laminated in several layers
Oak wrestplank
Bottom and lid in solid wood
Swiss pine soundboard
Keyboard Two reverse keyboards with ebony naturals, bone-slipped accidentals, pearwood arcades
Action Traditional wooden jacks
Assembly Braces either tongue and grooved, or dovetailed
Stand Turned in beech, dismountable
Music desk Historic style, pivoting for continuo score sharing
Dimensions Length 237cm • Width 94cm • Depth of case 28cm
Weight about 70kg
Instructions Manual in English or French
full size paper drawing
Level of difficulty Experienced to Professional
Standard version Version 2, case assembled
Options Version 3, soundboard installed $29470
Version 4, all woodwork completed $33200
Louis XVI-style stand parts, version 2 $13220
Price Standard version 2, case assembled $25950
Australian dollar GST-inclusive prices ex Peakhurst effective 1 January 2024.
Please enquire for export pricing.
Prices and specifications subject to change without notice.

Gluing the 8' nut 28K jpeg

From our series of Hemsch construction pictures:
Gluing the 8⁠´nut

pdf icon 1K png  Sample page from the Hemsch French Double Construction Manual describing this process


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