Clavichord

We do not know much about this exhibit. It is a typical clavichord which – as a separate musical instrument – appeared in the 14th century. The use of clavichords spread in the 1st half of the 16th century. The one from the collection of the Museum of Ziemia Biecka came from the 18th century, from the time when the clavichord reached its final shape; among other features, it was equipped with legs. In previous centuries it had a form of a small box which made it possible to carry an instrument. Along with the structural changes and improvement in the methods of producing the sound, the size of the instrument and its use were extended. It was used for practicing and soloing. For public performances a harpsichord was rather used as its sound was louder and the timbre was sharper.
Both Johann Sebastian Bach and his son Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach eagerly used the clavichord while the latter specialised in compositions played on this instrument