Claviature

/ˌkləvɪˈeɪtʃər/ noun

Definition

The keyboard of a musical instrument, especially a harpsichord, clavichord, or organ; or the arrangement of keys on such an instrument.

Etymology

From French 'claviature,' from 'clavier' (keyboard), from Latin 'clavis' (key). Emerged in Renaissance musical terminology.

Kelly Says

Renaissance and Baroque composers had to think carefully about claviature—different keyboard instruments had different key arrangements and capabilities, which directly shaped what music they could write.

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