The Clavichord

Dating from about 1400, the clavichord flourished four centuries later in the music of Bach. When the key is pressed, a vertical brass strip (tangent) at the other end rises and strikes a pair of strings. In fretted clavichords this same pair of strings can also produce a second pitch, when struck by a neighboring key at a higher or lower point. To compensate for weak tone, the clavichord's direct lever contact between finger and string permits expressive control of dynamics and even vibrato.