John
and Bonnie Bennett have been building keyboard instruments together for over
fifteen years. John has devoted most of his career to the study of historical
keyboard instruments and the building of instruments that allow for the expressive
performance of the early music repertory. He apprenticed with the harpsichord
builder William Hyman from 1973 until Hyman’s death in 1975, after which
John spent eleven years working with David Way as the foreman of Zuckerman
Harpsichords in Stonington, Connecticut. He was primarily responsible
for new instrument design and tonal finishing. Since that time he has operated
his own shop, pursuing his interests in small and chamber organs as well as
continuing his work in harpsichord voicing and repair.
With over
thirty years of experience, John has provided service for numerous individuals,
universities and churches throughout the United States. He is available
for tuning and concert preparation as well as on-site service calls throughout
Southern New England and is prepared to offer continuing maintenance programs
for individuals and institutions so that their instruments can receive the
periodic attention they deserve.
It was while working a Zuckerman Harpsichords that Bonnie met
John. A life long decorative artist with careers in theatre, textile and landscape
design, she collaborates with John on the case designs. Bonnie does the keyboard
and case finishing, all the decorative painting and cut fretwork.
Together they bring a unique approach to instrument building
and design.
Sample
Projects
While we have built multiple copies of several
of our designs, most have been custom designs to fit the particular needs
of the client. We are ready to modify an existing design or to create something
entirely new if your needs so require. Click on the thumbnail photos to the
left to see examples of our designs.
“My sincerest thanks also to John Bennett, who has helped me out on many occasions with his intimate and sophisticated knowledge of voicing”
Edward
Kottick,
The Harpsichord Owner’s Guide.
To
see our brochure in PDF form,
click here.
Contact us at: bennettworks@verizon.net
Tel: 401-377-4333