After half a century of meticulous work, Calgary musician Susan Rod has finally completed the harpsichord she began building in 1976. The retired violinist's lifelong passion project has come to a close, marking the end of an extraordinary journey in musical craftsmanship.
A Labor of Love Spanning Five Decades
Rod first fell in love with the harpsichord nearly 50 years ago, and what started as a dream quickly turned into a dedicated pursuit. Over the years, she has poured countless hours into constructing the instrument by hand, carefully selecting materials and fine-tuning every detail. The harpsichord now stands as a testament to her patience, skill, and devotion to music.
The Final Chord
The completion of the harpsichord represents not just the end of a project, but the fulfillment of a lifelong artistic vision. Rod, who spent her career as a violinist, has now added the role of instrument maker to her legacy. The instrument is expected to produce a rich, authentic sound that reflects the traditional Baroque era harpsichords that inspired her.
While the harpsichord may have struck its final chord in terms of construction, Rod's contribution to Calgary's musical community will resonate for years to come. Her dedication serves as an inspiration to musicians and craftspeople alike, proving that some passions are worth a lifetime of effort.
