What does harpsichordist mean?
A harpsichordist is a musician who plays the harpsichord, an early keyboard instrument whose strings are plucked rather than struck. The word is used in musical writing, concert publicity, and biographies when the instrument itself matters, rather than when a performer is described more generally as a keyboardist or pianist. It is especially apt in discussions of Baroque and early music, since harpsichords were central to European courtly and sacred music, although the term is not restricted to historical performance. A harpsichordist may be a soloist, accompanist, teacher, or ensemble member, and modern composers and performers continue to use the instrument. The word carries a professional and specialist connotation, distinguishing someone who plays this particular plucked-string keyboard from a general keyboard player. Knowing it is useful because it names both a performer and the distinctive sound and performance tradition associated with the harpsichord.
nounA harpsichordist is a musician who plays the harpsichord, an early keyboard instrument in which the strings are plucked rather than struck.
- A musician who plays the harpsichord, an early keyboard instrument whose strings are plucked by quills or plectra.
"The acclaimed harpsichordist performed a program of Bach with a small chamber ensemble."
"A harpsichordist from Edinburgh was invited to accompany the choir for the festival."
"The manuscript records the harpsichordist's improvised variations on the theme."
The standard plural of harpsichordist is harpsichordists.
"The festival welcomed harpsichordists from several countries."
A harpsichordist gives voice to an instrument whose keyboard works like a typewriter and whose strings shimmer with every touch.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does harpsichordist come from?
Harpsichordist was formed in English from harpsichord and the occupational suffix -ist, meaning a person who plays or practices something; the same suffix appears in pianist and organist. The name harpsichord comes through French from older European forms combining the idea of a harp with a word associated with a musical string or chord.
How harpsichordist is actually used
The term is precise and professional, identifying a performer of a particular historical or modern keyboard instrument. It is especially common in concert listings, recordings, and discussions of Baroque and early music.
Easily confused with harpsichordist
A pianist plays a piano, whose strings are struck by hammers, whereas a harpsichordist plays a harpsichord, whose strings are plucked.