The History of Finchcocks

A large Georgian Manor House built in 1725, it is a red brick construction and is noted for it’s outstanding brickwork. Named after the family that lived there during the 13^th century. It is quite imposing as one catches glimpses of it though the trees, entering the driveway gates the house stands in all it’s glory. It is easy to imagine the olden days with the horse and carriage parked outside the main entrance, gardeners tending the 13 acres of gardens; it must have been a house full of life.
In 1970 Finchcocks was purchased by Richard Burrnett a leading exponent of the early piano, he has a collection of some 80 historical keyboard instruments including chamber organs, virginals, spinets, clavichords and a wide range of early pianos some dating from the 1600’s.

Sojourn's View

Today I doubt if the house has changed at all but if you are expecting the typical historical house you are in for a surprise. I arrived at 2pm on a Sunday afternoon with my wife expecting the normal 2-hour tour that was my first mistake; we eventually left at 6.30 having spent an enthralling afternoon.

Getting our tickets we enter through some of the tallest doors I have ever seen, to be confronted by rooms full of pianos and keyboard instruments. It is obvious that they are extremely old, they appear to be arranged in no particular order and stored as if in a warehouse. There are rows of chairs; this is no ordinary historical house.

Reaching what was clearly the hallway, any ideas that I had of just browsing evaporated into thin air. We were treated to what I can only describe as an extremely informative, humorous and musical lecture of the different instruments on display. The instruments were played beautifully by Richard Burnett and guest pianists. After 30 – 45 minutes we were invited to stroll around the gardens or go to the restaurant in the cellars of the exhibition of prints, paintings and costumes. Not forgetting impromptu demonstrations and recitals on the many keyboard instruments to be found.

Returning again for further lectures and recitals we were treated as a finale with four pianists playing one piano at the same time, a first for me. An exceptional afternoon, I particularly like the informal atmosphere and I am looking forward to my next visit.

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