Clavichord

Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library

Clavichord

Clavichord - A forerunner of the pianoforte, the clavichord was a stringed instrument derived from the dulcimer by the addition of a keyboard. Its sweet tremulous tone is produced by brass pins called tangents, which are fixed in the keys and flattened out at the upper end. These tangents set the strings vibrating, at the same time measuring the length required to produce the tone corresponding to the key stuck. Later separate strings were added to produce the individual notes. The Clavichord originates from the 14th century. Date: 1929

Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries

Media ID 11556963

© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection

Cigarette Dulcimer Form Instrument Instruments Keyboard Keys Stringed Clavichord Musical

EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph, taken in 1929, showcases an exquisite example of a Clavichord, an early musical instrument that predates the pianoforte. The Clavichord, a stringed instrument derived from the dulcimer, is characterized by its delicate and sweet tremulous tone. The instrument's unique sound is produced by brass pins called tangents, which are fixed in the keys and flattened out at the upper end. As the key is struck, the tangent sets the string vibrating, simultaneously measuring the length needed to produce the corresponding tone. Originating in the 14th century, the Clavichord represents an essential milestone in the development of keyboard instruments. Unlike the pianoforte, which uses hammers to strike the strings, the Clavichord's tangents gently touch the strings, allowing for a more subtle and nuanced sound. The addition of separate strings for individual notes further refined the instrument's capabilities. In this image, the Clavichord sits serenely on a table, its intricate details illuminated by the soft light. A cigarette rests on the music stand, adding a touch of nostalgia and human connection to the scene. The close-up perspective invites us to appreciate the intricacies of the instrument's design, from the delicate keys to the meticulously crafted strings. As we gaze at this historical artifact, we are transported back in time, imagining the music that once filled the rooms where this instrument was played. The Clavichord stands as a testament to the rich history of musical innovation and the enduring allure of the piano and its ancestors.

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