Burton Harpsichords

[seanhmoss]

This is not a piano topic, but I thought this may be a good forum to ask around about it. Are Burton harpsichords good instruments? I am told that certain harpsichords from Burton are not "historically authentic" but can they present a convincing performance of historical repertoire?

[iansinclair]

Unless memory fails me, most Burton harpsichords were (maybe are?) kits.  Therefore what you get may be rather variable, depending a lot on the skill of the person who put it together.  I have also heard -- but have absolutely no first hand knowledge on -- that the original Burton plectrum design was a bit troublesome -- but that there are decent substitutes.

All that said, "historically authentic" is a most dubious term.  Just as I would suggest for pianos, but even more so, what counts is: can the instrument which you are looking at produce the repertoire you want to play on it in a way that pleases you?  If so, fine!  If not, it doesn't matter how historically accurate it may or may not be -- it's not the right instrument for you.

[justharmony]

I sent you a private message - check it out.
JH