The harpsichord is a keyboard instrument that produces sound by plucking strings when keys are pressed. It was widely used during the Renaissance and Baroque periods, known for its distinct, bright tone. Unlike the piano, which uses hammers to strike strings, the harpsichord's mechanism gives it a unique sound that is often associated with early classical music. Typically made of wood, the harpsichord features one or more sets of strings and can have multiple keyboards, allowing for a range of musical expression. Composers like Johann Sebastian Bach and Domenico Scarlatti wrote significant works for the instrument, contributing to its popularity in historical music.