Harpsichords, clavichords, and Baroque organs sounded very different from modern keyboards — not just in timbre but in tuning. Meantone temperaments and well temperaments were the standard, and every key had a distinctive harmonic character. Choosing the right temperament for Baroque keyboard repertoire is essential to authentic historically-informed performance.
Practical guidance: Quarter-comma meantone is the correct choice for most harpsichord and organ repertoire before 1700. Its pure major thirds (5:4 ratio) give the Renaissance and early Baroque sound its characteristic sweetness. After 1700, well temperaments — particularly Werckmeister III, Kirnberger III, or Barnes' Bach — provide access to all 24 keys while preserving key color. Avoid equal temperament for Baroque repertoire — it erases the key-specific color that composers exploited.
