Insight Harpsichord

Description

Hamburg‘s Museum für Kunst & Gewerbe (Museum for Art & Industry) is home to a collection of keyboard instruments ranging from the first surviving harpsichords from the Renaissance period right through to the modern concert grand piano. One very special feature about the collection is that some of the instruments can even be played. At this Elbphilharmonie PLUS event, harpsichordist Elina Albach plays some of the historical instruments. The focus lays on the modern facet of spinets and harpsichords. Baroque ist juxtaposed with modern works. Olaf Kirsch, curator of the exhibition, provides some insightful background knowledge – both about the instruments and playing techniques.

This entertaining and informative museum visit is the perfect way to get in the mood for the concert featuring harpsichordist Mahan Esfahani. On 17 April 2026, as part of the »Cembalomania« series, Esfahani performs further modern works for his instrument.

Please note that this event at the MK&G is not step-free, as instruments are played on two floors housing the collection. These floors are connected by a staircase. The event takes place in German.

Elbphilharmonie PLUS is a programme that opens up different ways of looking at the music performed at the Elbphilharmonie – either to supplement a concert, or as an experience in its own right. Interdisciplinary encounters and exhibitions form part of the Elbphilharmonie PLUS programme, as do concert talks and films shown in museums, libraries, cinemas and community centres.