Baroque harpsichord

Timeline

1. 1397–1500Padua · VenetoA notarial document from Padua in 1397 first explicitly mentions a plucking keyboard instrument called 「clavicembalum」, marking the harpsichord's entry into documented history. Early models were structurally simple, laying the foundation for later regional styles.
2. 1560–1600Antwerp · FlandersFlemish harpsichords built by the Ruckers family in Antwerp were renowned for their powerful volume and multiple string courses, becoming the European standard; the Italian school was noted for thin soundboards and bright tone. The two styles developed in parallel, establishing the harpsichord's dominant position as the court keyboard instrument around 1600.
3. 1601–1610European courts · SpainIn the early 17th century the practice of basso continuo performance took shape, and the harpsichord, as a harmonic filler instrument, became standard in chamber music and early opera. Harpsichordists in Italian, French, and English courts held prominent positions, and figures such as Vivaldi published numerous harpsichord collections.
4. 1680–1750Paris · Île-de-FranceFrançois Couperin and Jean-Philippe Rameau brought French harpsichord music to an artistic peak, renowned for refined ornamentation and dance suites; Bach in Germany meanwhile composed immortal masterpieces such as the Goldberg Variations for the harpsichord.