HARPSICHORD RENTAL and LONG-TERM HIRE

Over the years, some owners of my more modest instruments have told me that they had a yen for a harpsichord for a long time, but had thought that they would never be able to own one, because they were rather esoteric - and too expensive. As prices have steadily increased, such an attitude has become ever more understandable. But there are ways of having a harpsichord in your home other than outright purchase.

The rental of a piano, for periods from a few days to several years, has long been accepted. Considering the average purchase-price of a harpsichord, it is perhaps surprising that a rental-service has only rarely been available for these instruments. But their successful provision over the last five years, has proved both attractive and completely practicable, and we are now pleased to offer harpsichords for rental throughout southern England .

Instrument-rental becomes even more attractive if the supplier can offer a purchase option. Any client may choose at some time to order a new instrument from Colin Booth’s workshop. In such a case, 50% of the rental fees paid after the order is placed, will be deducted from the purchase price of the new instrument. In some cases, Colin may agree to sell the rented instrument, in which case, a generous discount will also apply.

Aren’t there different types of harpsichord?

Instruments for rental are of many different types: there are occasional new instruments in perfect condition; and there are used instruments by Colin Booth, or by other makers (all fully restored). Some are specialist instruments (for instance, those with bass short-octave) - and some, of more general application. There is a considerable variety, from a spinet or small, simple Italian harpsichord with one set of strings, to a large harpsichord with three sets of strings and two keyboards. The differences between the tuning and maintenance requirements of these instruments will be obvious: in all respects a simple model will cost less. The kind which will suit each client best is something to be discussed, without obligation, at an early stage. In some cases ( particularly in that of small, portable models ) the supplier will agree to the instrument being used in more than one location. Generally, the insurance (paid for by the client) will only cover the instrument’s use in the home.

Are there any drawbacks to keeping a harpsichord?

Harpsichords require more routine attention from an expert, than a piano does. Some will benefit from a regular service once a year, and in some cases an occasional visit to rectify some minor mechanical difficulty may be required. Since the instruments are provided in perfect working order, fully refurbished, this happens surprisingly seldom. A full back-up service is available, either from Colin Booth, or (in the South-East) a qualified service-agent, at a sensible price, and rental-charges themselves are kept low, to take account of these “extras”. Tuning is a different matter. The control of climate helps to minimise tuning and servicing costs, but a harpsichord always requires tuning more often than a piano. Many piano-tuners are competent to tune harpsichords, and the supplier or his agent may also be called upon from time to time to do a thorough tuning. Some clients will be more capable than others of taking on this task themselves, and may prefer to do so, with or without the help of a modern electronic tuning-aid. A complete tuning may be needed once a month or so - sometimes less. Otherwise it is normally possible for the user to “knock-in” notes which offend the ear, and this intimate connection with the instrument is, for many, one of the pleasures of the harpsichord.

Can the instrument be changed?

Rental is an excellent way of finding out which type of instrument you really prefer. There is no penalty for up-grading – or indeed for changing to a simpler model. The only extra charge is the cost of a fresh delivery.

What is the first step?

Simple: The attached list shows the complete current range, and summarises the charges. Contact Colin Booth and tell him your thoughts. He will tell you what instruments are available, and offer expert advice without obligation.