clavichord

The clavichord is one of the earliest keyboard instruments, dating back to the late medieval period. Unlike the harpsichord, which plucks strings, the clavichord uses small brass tangents that strike the strings and remain in contact, allowing the player to control dynamics and even add a subtle vibrato called Bebung. The clavichord's extremely soft volume limited it to private practice and small rooms, but its expressive capabilities were unmatched by any other keyboard instrument of its era. C.P.E. Bach was its greatest champion, and J.S. Bach likely composed much of his keyboard music at the clavichord. It was the closest thing to a touch-sensitive keyboard before the piano was invented.