Traditionally on the end of each key sat a crow, raven, or dove quill called a plectrum. In the end of this plectrum is a wooden stick, which sits on the end of the key. When the key is depressed the wooden stick, called a jack, pushes upward causing the plectrum to pluck the string. In this way it is almost like plucking a harp string or the guitarist s finger strumming. In marked contrast to the more percussive action of the piano.
Music coming from the harpsichord is usually bright and sharp.
The main disadvantage of the harpsichord that makes it so difficult to play is the inability to vary the sound or dynamic. There is a way to make it seem as thought the sound is varied. It is not uncommon to have a hand on the first manual and the other on the second at a crisscross. In this way the harpsichord is more personal instrument. One literally needs to understand the personality of this instrument in order to link music and soul.