How Do You Spell CLAVICHORDS?

Pronunciation: [klˈavɪkˌɔːdz] (IPA)

The word "clavichords" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription /ˈklævɪkɔːrdz/. The first syllable "clav" is pronounced with a short 'a' sound as in the word 'cat'. The second syllable "i" is pronounced with a short 'i' sound as in the word 'it'. The third syllable "chords" is pronounced with the 'ch' sound as in the word 'church', and the 'o' sound as in the word 'order'. The final 's' is pronounced as an 'z'. Clavichords are musical instruments from the Baroque period that produce sound by striking strings with small metal blades called tangents.

CLAVICHORDS Meaning and Definition

1. Clavichords are musical instruments from the keyboard family that gained popularity during the medieval and Renaissance periods. They are often considered the precursor to the modern piano.

   A clavichord consists of a rectangular wooden box with a keyboard, typically spanning four to five octaves, mounted on top. The keys are made of wood and are shorter and wider than those found on a piano. Each key is connected to a metal blade known as a tangent. When a key is pressed, the tangent strikes the strings, creating sound.

   The unique feature of the clavichord is its ability to produce dynamic variations. Unlike other keyboard instruments of its time, the clavichord allows the player to control the volume and expression by varying the pressure applied to the keys. This is achieved through an intimate connection between the player's fingertip and the tangent, which allows for minute nuances in volume and timbre.

   The sound produced by a clavichord is soft and delicate compared to instruments like the harpsichord or piano. It is known for its rich and expressive tone, often described as intimate and introspective. Due to its limited sound projection, the clavichord was primarily used for solo performances or small intimate settings.

   Today, clavichords are primarily viewed as historical instruments, appreciated for their unique sound and the insight they provide into the musical practices of earlier periods. They are often used in Early Music performances and can occasionally be found in private collections or museums.

Common Misspellings for CLAVICHORDS

• claviachords
• claveshords

Etymology of CLAVICHORDS

The word "clavichords" can be traced back to its Latin origins. It is derived from the Latin words "clavis" meaning "key" and "chorda" meaning "string". The combination of these two words resulted in "clavicorda", which was the Latin name for a keyboard instrument with strings. Over time, the word evolved into "clavichord" in English, referring specifically to the medieval and Renaissance stringed instrument that was played by striking the strings with metal tangents attached to the keys. The plural form of the word, "clavichords", simply denotes multiple instances of the instrument.

Similar spelling words for CLAVICHORDS

• claviceps,
• clavicle,
• clavichord.