Clavichord, anonymous, c. 1650

Clavichord, anonymous, c. 1650

ebony, spruce, ivory, brass, iron; lid: oil on panel, h 10.0cm × w 83.0cm × d 28.0cm More details

In the clavichord each string is struck by a small piece of metal called a tangent. Its touch-sensitive action allows great expressiveness in playing, although its small size and softness of sound make it unsuitable for large-scale public performance. Nevertheless, the clavichord was an ideal home practice instrument for keyboard players, especially organists, and a perfect tool for composers.

On display in room 2.20 Visit via the Music tour

Listen to audio fragment (from the multimedia tour)

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