Kottick presents technical information in an accessible, but
entertaining, way: the forms and styles of harpsichords, advice on
purchasing decisions, maintenance techniques (such as voicing,
regulating, and changing strings, tongues, plectra, springs, and
dampers), aids in troubleshooting common problems, and detailed
instructions on tuning and temperament. As builder of some thirty
keyboard instruments, Kottick is well qualified to speak on the
subject.