Harpsichord original pen and ink and watercolour illustration by Rosie Brooks

The harpsichord is a musical instrument that belongs to the family of keyboard instruments. It was widely used in Europe during the Baroque period (approximately 1600-1750) and was a popular instrument for both solo and ensemble performances.

The harpsichord produces sound by plucking the strings with small plectra attached to the keys. Unlike the piano, which has hammers that strike the strings, the harpsichord's sound is created by the strings vibrating in response to the plucking action. The sound of the harpsichord is typically characterized by its bright, crisp tone and its ability to produce complex and ornate musical textures.

The harpsichord has a rich history and has been used in a wide variety of musical genres, from classical music to jazz and popular music. Some of the most famous composers who wrote for the harpsichord include J.S. Bach, Domenico Scarlatti, and François Couperin.

Today, the harpsichord is still played and appreciated by musicians and music lovers around the world. While it is not as commonly used in modern music as other keyboard instruments such as the piano, it continues to be an important instrument in the study and performance of Baroque music.