What type of people normally played a harpsichord?

The harpsichord was primarily played by musicians in the Baroque period, particularly in the 16th to 18th centuries. It was favored by composers and performers in both secular and sacred music settings, including court musicians, keyboard virtuosos, and composers like Bach and Handel. Typically, those who played the harpsichord were well-educated and often came from affluent backgrounds, as it required both musical training and access to the instrument. The harpsichord was also popular among amateur musicians and families of the wealthy elite as a means of home entertainment.