Organology is the study of musical instruments.

The acoustic and mechanical properties of historical stringed keyboard instruments - harpsichords, virginals, clavichords, and pianos - are being investigated in relation to the technological design principles and fabrication techniques used by historical instrument builders, as well as the materials available to them. The scope includes all stringed keyboard instruments from the earliest 16th century harpsichords to late 19th century pianos.

The focus of current research involves two main areas: (1) pre-industrial geometric design techniques; and (2) the physical properties of historical materials and reproduction of physically accurate modern replacements for those no longer available. Initial work on materials emphasizes iron and steel music wires, and historical leathers.

Historical source material on trades and crafts:
AJ Roubo, L'Art du menuisier. Table des chapitres et titres. Paris, 1769-1774.