Neupert Harpsichords
The harpsichord is a stringed keyboard instrument that sounds when a plectrum plucks the string as a key is pressed; it was the principal keyboard instrument of 16th- to 18th-century music. J.C. Neupert builds a wide range of harpsichords, from copies of instruments by historical masters such as Ruckers, Blanchet, Hemsch and Hass to the 20th-century-designed Bach harpsichord. Kuğu Müzik is Neupert’s authorised dealer in Türkiye, and all models are available to order.
What defines Neupert harpsichords:
- Historical copies: Models based on originals in museum collections: Ruckers (1637), Hass (1734), Blanchet (1737), Hemsch (1754), Antunes (1758)
- Single and double manual: From compact single-manual models to concert harpsichords with a 16′ register
- Historical action: Wooden jacks and Delrin plectra
- Transposing: a1 = 440/415 Hz transposing mechanism on many models
Neupert Harpsichord Models
The specifications and detailed images of each model are on its own page.
Model Comparison
| Model | Manuals | Compass | Registers | Length | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Neupert Antunes | Single | A1–f3 | 8′, 8′, lute | 230 cm | 59 kg |
| Neupert Bach | Double | F1–g3 | 8′, 16′, lute / 4′, 8′, lute | 260 cm | 170 kg |
| Neupert Blanchet | Single / double | G1–f3 / F1–f3 | Single: 8′, 8′, lute · Double: 8′, 4′ / 8′, lute | 220 / 234 cm | 63 / 70 kg |
| Neupert Hass | Double | F1–f3 | 8′, 4′, 16′, lute / 8′, lute | 255 cm | 76 kg |
| Neupert Hemsch | Double | F1–f3 | 8′, 4′ / 8′, lute | 231 cm | 68 kg |
| Neupert Italian Style | Single | B1–d3 | 2 × 8′ | 220 cm | 31 kg |
| Neupert Pedal Harpsichord | Pedal | C–f1 (pedal) | 8′, 4′, 16′ | ~300 cm | 135 kg |
| Neupert Rameau | Single | F1–f3 | 8′, 8′, lute or 8′, 4′ | 194 cm | 48 kg |
| Neupert Ruckers | Single / double | G1–f3 | Single: 8′, 8′, lute · Double: 8′, 4′ / 8′, lute | 187 / 197 cm | 58 / 62 kg |
| Neupert Telemann | Single | C–f3 | 8′, 4′, divided lute | 143 cm | 48 kg |
Historical Copy or 20th-Century Harpsichord?
Most Neupert harpsichords are copies of historical instruments in museum collections and feature historical construction details such as wooden jacks and Delrin plectra. The Neupert Bach, by contrast, is not based on a specific original; it is a concert harpsichord designed in the 1930s in the spirit of the 20th-century harpsichord revival, with a rich, pedal-controlled register layout.
For the home, schools or small spaces, the compact Telemann and the five-octave Rameau, built on historical construction principles, are practical choices. For concert use, those who want a 16′ register can choose the Hass or the Bach, and those who want to practise organ music can choose the pedal harpsichord.
Other Neupert Instruments
Neupert spinet · Neupert clavichord · Neupert fortepiano. For all instruments, see the Neupert page; for the second-hand harpsichords in our showroom, see the second-hand harpsichords page.
Source: J.C. Neupert – Harpsichords
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy a single- or double-manual harpsichord?
A single-manual harpsichord is enough for continuo and most of the solo repertoire; it is more compact and lighter. A double-manual harpsichord is an advantage in works that need a contrast of tone colour between the two manuals, such as the French Baroque repertoire and Bach’s Italian Concerto.
What does a transposing mechanism do?
A transposing mechanism shifts the keyboard to switch quickly between a1 = 440 Hz and a1 = 415 Hz, which is common in Baroque music. This lets you play with ensembles using both modern and Baroque pitch.
How can I buy a Neupert harpsichord?
Neupert harpsichords are built to order in the workshop near Bamberg and brought to Türkiye through Kuğu Müzik. For help choosing the model, finish and additional equipment, get in touch with us.