What are the similarities/differences between a piano and harpsichord??

Answer 1

They are similar in that both are keyboard instruments. The main difference is in the way the sound is produced. The harpsichord plucks the strings and the piano strikes them.

Answer 2

Similarities: Both instruments are played by keyboards A piano plays a note with one to three strings, certain types of harpsichord also use multiple strings on single notes. Differences: A piano is sounded by a hammer striking the string(s). A harpsichord is sounded by a quill or plectra plucking the string(s). A piano keyboard is 88 notes. A harpsichord keyboard is usually only 61 notes. The action of the piano is much more complex, as the hammer typically works against the way the key is pressed. Harpsichord action is much simpler as the action works with the key. These are just very few and simple comparisons. I'd suggest doing more research if you want to understand the more complex differences.

Answer 3

Well they are both stringed keyboard instruments that look similar. The big difference in the sound is that a piano note has more sustain while a harpsichord note is much shorter.

Therefore the piano has far more variety in the sounds and combinations of sounds possible. You can play harpsichord music on a piano (though it will sound slightly different) but you can't play piano music on a harpsichord.

Answer 4

Both use wire to conduct sound. harpsichord produces a differnet pitch. I believe that the harpsichord is older.

Answer 5

Keyboard