Is the clavichord the same as the harpsichord?

Answer 1

Yes, but only to the extent of being stringed keyboard instruments. They differ considerably so sound very different, as the piano's action is percussive whilst the harpsichord plucks the strings. The harpsichord was invented before the piano.

Answer 2

They are related, but not that strongly. Apart from the obvious 'harp' connection in their names, they are each stringed instruments containing soundboards. Another relationship is that the strings of a harp and the strings of the harpsichord are plucked in order to produce sound. The timbres of the two instruments are quite different for a variety of reasons. Each harpsichord key regulates one or more jacks, structures made of wood, metal or plastic depending on when the harpsichord was built/reconstructed. Each jack has a 'plectrum', a length of quill, plastic or other material, that rests under the string when the note is not being played. Depress a key and the jack, along with its plectrum, move up and the string is plucked. Release the key and the plectrum slides back under the string and the string is dampered. The sound is very bright with prominant harmonics. There are various ways to 'stop' or 'buffer' the strings so that the sound more resembles a lute. Harp strings can be 'stopped' in similar ways. But the harpsichord sound does not readily change in volume. However fast or slow you press a key, the energy imparted by the bending plectrum is all that there is. On the other hand, a harpist can vary volume tremendously because the strings are plucked with the fingers.

Answer 3

No. They are very different instruments:

The clavichord produces sound by striking brass or iron strings with metal blades.

The harpsichord produces sound by a quill plucking the string.

Answer 4

They both involve strings, but a piano has hammers hitting a string, causing the sound. A harp has the player pulling the strings.

Answer 5

Yes. The harpsichord was invented and then the piano was an "off shoot" of the harpsichord.