Shudi family

The Shudi family were prominent Swiss-born harpsichord makers who established their business in London. Burkat Shudi (also known as Burkhardt Tschudi) was a leading figure in 18th-century harpsichord construction in Britain, alongside the Kirkman family. Shudi's instruments were known for their robust and brilliant tone.1

John Broadwood, a cabinetmaker, began working for Shudi in 1761. He married Shudi's daughter in 1769 and became his partner in the firm the following year. After Shudi's death in 1773, Broadwood eventually took over the business entirely in 1782. While harpsichord making declined with the rise of the piano, Broadwood continued to build harpsichords alongside pianos until after 1800.23