What is a fretted clavichord?

What is a fretted clavichord?

The pairs of strings of a clavichord vibrate when struck by a tangent attached to the back of each key. This particular model is called a fretted or gebunden type of clavichord. Consequently, the keys which use the same string cannot be played simultaneously.

What is one of the disadvantages of the clavichord?

The disadvantage of this type of instrument was that two notes produced by the same string could not be played simultaneously. Unlike the piano, the length of a note and vibrato on a clavichord can be controlled by varying the pressure on the key after it’s pressed.

What is the difference between a clavichord and a harpsichord?

The difference between clavichord and harpsichord is that clavichord is an early keyboard instrument producing a soft sound by means of metal blades (called tangents) attached to the inner ends of the keys gently striking the strings while harpsichord is an instrument with a piano-like keyboard, which produces sound by …

How does the clavichord differ from the harpsichord?

How do Clavichords work?

Historically, it was mostly used as a practice instrument and as an aid to composition, not being loud enough for larger performances. The clavichord produces sound by striking brass or iron strings with small metal blades called tangents. Vibrations are transmitted through the bridge(s) to the soundboard.

How is the clavichord work?

The clavichord produces sound by striking brass or iron strings with small metal blades called tangents. Vibrations are transmitted through the bridge(s) to the soundboard.

Which is older harpsichord or clavichord?

The first keyboard instrument that used strings, the clavichord, came to be in the late Middle Ages, although nobody knows exactly when it was invented. The clavichord was also much smaller and simpler than its relative, the harpsichord.

How is a clavichord played?

Why is a virginal so called?

The virginal may take its name from Latin virga (“rod”), referring to the jacks, or wooden shafts that rest on the ends of the keys and hold the plucking mechanism. Unlike the harpsichord and spinet, the virginal’s single set of strings runs nearly parallel to the keyboard.

What is a triple fretted clavichord?

The RWC triple fretted clavichord is based on an illustration in Praetorius’ Syntagma Musicum, 1618. The instrument although compact is still very resonant due in no small part to its system of triple fretting. We have chosen to use oak for the main construction of the casework with traditional iron wire hinges, hasps and fastenings.

How does a clavichord produce its sound?

Like the Renaissance clavichord, it produced its sound by means of metal tangents striking the string. Since the tangents are attached to the keys themselves, players are able to control the dynamics to a certain degree, mostly from p to pppp! Unfretted German clavichord (Hamburg, 1744) by Hieronymus Albrecht Hass.

Is there a recording of Bach playing on a clavichord?

A cassette recording of music by Bach, Haydn, Howells and Bartok played on this clavichord by John Cramer is available. The RWC triple fretted clavichord is based on an illustration in Praetorius’ Syntagma Musicum, 1618. The instrument although compact is still very resonant due in no small part to its system of triple fretting.

How much does a clavichord weigh?

Weight: 12kg. The finished clavichord includes the panelled lid and straight stand. A finished clavichord with a soundboard painting can be arranged for an extra cost. A cassette recording of music by Bach, Haydn, Howells and Bartok played on this clavichord by John Cramer is available.

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