Clavichord

/ˈklæviˌkɔːrd/ noun

Definition

An early keyboard instrument (15th-18th century) with strings struck by small metal blades, producing soft, delicate tones.

Etymology

From Latin 'clavis' (key) and 'chorda' (string), literally 'key-string,' named for how the keyboard keys directly control the striking mechanism.

Kelly Says

The clavichord was the practice keyboard for serious musicians—it's so quiet and responsive that players could feel every note intimately, but too soft for concert halls, so they eventually moved to louder pianos.

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