clavichord etymology

Etymology:

  • Clavis (Latin): Key
  • Chorda (Latin): String

Meaning:

A clavichord is a keyboard instrument with strings that are struck by metal tangents to produce sound.

Origin:

  • The clavichord was invented in the late 14th century in Italy.
  • It evolved from the monochord, a single-stringed instrument used for tuning and studying musical intervals.
  • By the 16th century, the clavichord had become a popular instrument for domestic and court music.

Characteristics:

  • Keyboard: The clavichord has a simple keyboard with 54-61 keys.
  • Strings: Each key activates a metal tangent that strikes one of the strings.
  • Sound: The clavichord produces a soft, intimate sound that is capable of expressive dynamics.
  • Range: The range of the clavichord typically spans over four octaves.

Usage:

  • The clavichord was widely used in the Baroque and Classical periods.
  • It was particularly popular in Germany and England.
  • The clavichord was often used for practice, composition, and chamber music.
  • Famous composers who wrote for the clavichord include Johann Sebastian Bach, Christoph Willibald Gluck, and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

Decline:

  • The clavichord gradually declined in popularity during the 19th century as the piano became more prevalent.
  • However, it has experienced a revival of interest in recent decades among musicians seeking early music instruments.

clavichord relate terms

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  • clavichord

    Etymology Clavis Latin Key Chorda Latin String Meaning A clavichord is a keyb

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  • clavier

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    Etymology Origin Anglo Saxon Meaning made of clay or earthy Dialectal Variant c

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  • cloy

    Etymology Meaning and Origin of Cloy Etymology Middle English cloien cloien Old

  • conclave

    Conclave Etymology Origin Latin Meaning To enclose with a key Etymological Breakdow

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  • occlude

    Etymology Middle French occludre from Latin occludere to shut up close Latin ob

  • preclude

    Etymology Latin praecludere to shut off block Prae before claudere to cl

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