The interview

Miss Anastasia, hope all is well and good. Thankyou for being here with us for this fun little series of interviews, Without further ado, Let’s start from the top, shall we? How did you learn about the instrument and what inspired you to play the clavichord?

So I first learned about the clavichord back when I was a student at the Royal Academy. There was something special about this instrument that gave me the chills and kept me focused and interested; which for me, is the key to a true inspiration.

I see. So, how would you compare the clavichord to other musical instruments such as the harpsichord or the virginals?

Well, the clavichord does have similarities to other instruments from the Renaissance like the Regal, Virginals and Ottavini, which all are easy to travel with and have a wonderful sound. Instruments like this make it easy to travel and use around the world.

And what about its origins? Where did it originate and what in your opinion, was its significance during the 16th century?

The funny thing about the Clavichord is that it was developed in the early parts of the 14th century, and it is said that the instrument was very popular in Germany, Scandinavia and the Iberian Peninsula. But tales are to be told that privy-purse expenses did have some references to this instrument as early as 1502. But the biggest significance this instrument had was that in the 1700s when Mozart visited a shop that made the instrument and used it for his travels alongside loads of other componists.

Oh wow, who knew that the clavichord went that far back in time? This brings me to my next question, Have you ever experienced a live clavichord performance, and if so, how was the experience?

I have, the first time I heard the clavichord live was the first time I was mesmerized and wanted to learn about the instrument. The unique sound and tones of the instrument always brings me back to my past and I always lose myself to the lovely tunes of the instrument. One of the best experiences I ever had and one I will always remember.

Love the way you described the clavichord with such passion, it sounds so beautiful that I can’t help but think about what exactly is clavichord made for. So, in your opinion, What kind of music was the clavichord designed to play? Was it meant for the outdoors or indoors? Is it meant for a soft and delicate tune or could it be something more?

Personally, I think classical songs like some of Bach are perfect for this instrument since it always give the right chills and melody from the instrument, which I love. Even Mozart had some tunes which were played on the harpsichord, which also would be fitting to play on the Clavichord. But honestly, this instrument is light and easy to travel with, which makes it easy to use outdoors and indoors or wherever in the world you are and need to compose something new.

As we're nearing the end of the interview

Sounds quite versatile. And finally, any advice for those wishing to give the Clavichord a chance? any tips?

Personally, I would say my best advice is to practice. It might seem hard in the beginning, it might not even sound right and even off. But if you keep practising at it, and find your way to learn the chords and sound of the instrument, you will have yourself a new hobby before you know it!

Well, It sounds like the Clavichord is a little challenging but it seems the worth for all the pain. After all, no pain no gain, right?

Georgia Clearless