The Italian Virginal is our latest design, inspired by an unusual original instrument from the early 18th century with an inset keyboard.

The characteristic virginal tone emanating from the extra enclosed space at the right hand of the keyboard truly envelops the player. (There is a tool box at the corresponding left hand of the keyboard.) The case is of “false inner-outer” construction with the inner natural maple veneers contrasted against the painted lime exterior.

We have increased the versatility for modern players by fitting a fully chromatic keyboard, and allowing for transposition both up to A440 without the loss of the top note, and down to A392.

This is a most interesting instrument to build and play, and very suitable for musicians of all standards to explore the repertoire.

Our photograph shows the prototype with cherry inner veneers.

56+1 notes: GG–d''', transposable A392/A415/A440

Case in lime, lid and bottom in poplar
Inner case veneers in maple
Swiss pine soundboard
Bridge, nut, music desk & lid stick in cherry
Beech stand