Harpsichords Blog

Browsing Archive: January, 2022

1927 Dolmetsch Spinet meets a 1956 sibling!

Posted by Peter Barnes on Friday, January 28, 2022, In : Second-hand 
Two Octave spinets in the workshop at the same time. an interesting comparison!


Some differences in details, such as the mouldings on the case and the case height, but otherwise exactly the same layout. This spinet was in production for about 50 years!
The sound of both instruments is very similar although we have voiced the later one a little louder.
What fun we have here in Somerset..
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1928 Dolmetsch Octave Spinet now strung.

Posted by Peter Barnes on Tuesday, January 25, 2022, In : Second-hand 
Dan Flew, who is working here one day per week, has now completed the restringing of this instrument, refitted all the jacks, and is now voicing the spinet with authentic leather plectra.
This is a job for a very patient person!
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Delin Double with the bottom removed.

Posted by Peter Barnes on Tuesday, January 18, 2022, In : Second-hand 
Flemish Harpsichord makers often made their instruments so the bottom could be removed by drilling out the wooden dowels which held it in place. This enables internal repairs to be undertaken and aids soundboard repairs. My late father designed his Delin harpsichord so this could be done and there was a little movement between the bentside and the bottom of his instrument so I decided to have a look inside. Plenty of internal photos are on my homepage. 
When replacing the bottom, I put in more...
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Delin Harpsichord by John Barnes 1991

Posted by Peter Barnes on Sunday, January 9, 2022, In : Second-hand 
I have just started renovating this lovely instrument. It will be restrung in Rose iron and brass, and have new Delrin plectra.
A delight to work on!



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English Harpsichord, Finally Finished!

Posted by Peter Barnes on Sunday, January 9, 2022, In : New build 
The finishing touched on this harpsichord are now complete. Yours for only £4,995!


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Dolmetsch Ottavino Spinet 1928

Posted by Peter Barnes on Sunday, January 9, 2022, In : Second-hand 
Nearly an antique, this Arts and Crafts instrument is rare and interesting, and will shortly be available in full playing condition. Check out www.peterbarnesharpsichords.com for details.


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Several used and new Instruments available on my website.

Posted by Peter Barnes on Thursday, January 6, 2022, In : Second-hand 
I have discovered that many people read my blogs and contact me about instruments that I have already sold. Please check out www.peterbarnesharpsichords.com in order to see what I have currently available. I keep my website up to date at least twice a month! Greetings for 2022.
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About Me


Harpsichord Maker, restorer, repairer and vendor.