spinets
Small keyboard instruments
Spinets are small keyboard instruments, typically harpsichords or early pianos with a compact rectangular or triangular shape.
The spinet harpsichord has strings set at an angle to the keyboard, producing a softer, thinner sound than larger harpsichords.
In the 20th century, spinet pianos—short uprights with a compressed action—became popular for homes with limited space, though serious pianists generally avoided them for their inferior touch and tone.
Plucked-string keyboard instrument
- clavichordSoft-toned keyed instrument
- virginalsSmall Renaissance keyboard instrument
- keyboardArray of input keys
- fortepianoEarly hammer-action keyboard
clavier · plucking · quill · register · strings · soundboard · case · lid
Multi-movement instrumental composition
- concertoSolo-and-orchestra composition
- fugueContrapuntal musical form
- preludeIntroductory piece or event
- accompanimentSupplementary support element
chamber · recital · continuo · polyphony · counterpoint · arpeggio · scales · melody
Quality from past eras
- heirloomInherited family treasure
- collectibleObject worth amassing
- restorationReturning something to condition
- patinaSurface film from aging
relic · heritage · ornate · auction · provenance · refinishing · preservation · period
Limited in size
- space-savingMinimizing area used
- portableAble to be carried
- miniatureReduced-scale representation
- apartmentRented unit in building
economical · streamlined · efficient · modest · unobtrusive · manageable · domestic · parlor
harpsichord
Plucked-string keyboard instrument
- clavichordSoft-toned keyed instrument
- virginalsSmall Renaissance keyboard instrument
- keyboardArray of input keys
fortepiano · clavier · plucking · quill · register · strings · soundboard · case · lid · legs
sonata
Multi-movement instrumental composition
- concertoSolo-and-orchestra composition
- fugueContrapuntal musical form
- preludeIntroductory piece or event
accompaniment · chamber · recital · continuo · polyphony · counterpoint · arpeggio · scales · melody · harmony
vintage
Quality from past eras
- heirloomInherited family treasure
- collectibleObject worth amassing
- restorationReturning something to condition
patina · relic · heritage · ornate · auction · provenance · refinishing · preservation · period · craftsmanship
small
Limited in size
- space-savingMinimizing area used
- portableAble to be carried
- miniatureReduced-scale representation
apartment · economical · streamlined · efficient · modest · unobtrusive · manageable · domestic · parlor · drawing-room
spinetsgrand pianos
Large horizontal keyboard instruments
grands · baby grands · pipe organs · church organs · harpsichords