[TRT]

Impressive! How does transporting affect tuning?

 

[TRT]

Harpsichords are quite different from grand pianos. Grand pianos have a cast-iron frame with very high string tension, whereas harpsichords are basically just ornamented wooden boxes (the devil is in the details, though). Harpsichord strings are much thinner and have lower tension. The instrument is very sensitive to humidity and temperature changes. A major difference is also in the tuning itself; grand pianos have a standard tuning (equal temperament) whereas the tuning system of a harpsichord depends on the music and ensemble.

All this means that harpsichords need to be tuned regularly. Even when sitting still in a climate-controlled room, a harpsichord requires weekly readjustment. So, yes, the instrument needs to be at the performance venue for preferably several hours before the performance, and it needs to be tuned. This, however, is business as usual in the trade. Even if there happens to be a harpsichord at the venue, it needs to be tuned (and with some bad luck an odd string or quill/plectrum needs replacement).

As long as the instrument is not dropped or bumped into something, it seldom suffers transport damage. Some conditions are worse than others; cold winter days are bad as the humidity drops down and makes the instrument prone to cracking. If you look at the photo above, you can see an ugly crack in the cover of the instrument. This, of course, does not make the sound any worse, but a similar crack in the soundboard would not be a good thing. (The crack appeared out of nowhere during one winter. Wood is very strong along the grain, not across the grain.)

Also, I really hate speed bumps, gravel roads, and sett (cobblestone) streets but I think the ride is still smoother in an Ioniq than in a van.

The upside-down transportation requires some care. There are parts in the action that could fall off or get misaligned. Also, the cover is more sensitive than the bottom, so some cushioning is required in strategic positions. Nevertheless, if the instrument is prepared properly and handled carefully, it survives transportation. This is the downside of live music not being very suitable for work from home...

Thanks for clarifying. I was worried about where you would fit the piano tuner in the car 🙂.