Harpsichord

[Newton Hunt]

There are two tuning keys, one for square pins and one for
flattened pins.  In an emergency your let-off regulator will
function as a tuning key.  Poorly but it will work.

Normally broken strings are not a problem but do get the
book.  Harpsichord wire comes in super miniature sizes.

More often the problem will be plectra breaking.  A good
department will have a pats kit from which you can get what
is needed.

The players may require a different pitch, like 435 or 415
or something else weird.

CAUTION:  Many modern instruments have a keyboard that
slides left or right to change the pitch of the keys.  Make
certain you are not pulling the instrument up to 466.

Find out from what note they will want an HT tuned.  If they
want it from C and you tune it from A they will be unhappy.

If you need to change the pitch you will have to do it
twice, like a piano, and the offset will be the same as a
piano.

Most harpsichordists can do their own maintenance so let
them show you how to replace a string or plectra.  Don't get
jacks out of sequence.  Be careful of the tiny springs in
the plectra and don't go trying to regulate one unless and
until you know what you are doing.

There may be as many a three ranks of strings, or four,
maybe two keyboards, or just one.  All depends upon it being
French, Italian, Flemish or other.  Ask to be shown how the
stops work and which strings are engaged.  Better to be a
little dumb than break things too early.

Go cautiously, be intelligent and observant and above all
ask questions.

Lots of luck and my best wishes.

		Newton