Double Reed

Crumhorns (Steinkopf & Moeck)

Germany
Western Europe

Three Reproduction Crumhorns, one stamped O STEINKOPF, another stamped MOECK STEINKOPF, and the third stamped MOECK. A wind capped double reed instrument first noted in the "Syntagma musicum" vol. 2 (1619). Because of their limited range in pitch, they were made in groups of various lengths. Noted use of the crumhorns can be found in the sacred vocal works of Michael Praetorius, who suggested the use of crumhorns as a possible alternative to trombones, dulcians and other instruments. To play, the musician blows into the protective wind cap causing the enclosed reeds to vibrate. The name Crumhorn comes from the German "krumhorn" meaning 'bent horn,' and relates to the old English term meaning curve. The Crumhorn flourished between the 1400 to about 1650 C.E. Crumhorns are conical in shape, encompass the range of a ninth, are usually played in a consort (ensemble) of instruments. They vary in size and pitch ranging from the great bass to sopranino and their use ranged from dances and madrigals to church music.

Owner:
Catalog#: WE-AERV-66, 67, 68

© Hartenberger World Music Collection