Glass Harmonica
Bohemia, probably made by C.T. Pohl, 1800-1830
Wealthy families enjoyed the gentle music of glass instruments at recitals during the 18th and 19th centuries. Not to be outdone, Corning Museum of Glass allows you to experience the recording of the music of a Glass Harmonica, like this one.
The sound of this harmonica was determined by the sizes of the glasses. In 1762, Benjamin Franklin improved the process of making music by rubbing the moistened rims of glasses. He attached perfectly tuned glass bowls to a horizontal spindle, which was set in motion by the foot. The instrument, attracted the interest of many composers, including Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Richard Strauss.
Glass Harmonica
Bohemia, probably made by C.T. Pohl, 1800-1830
Wealthy families enjoyed the gentle music of glass instruments at recitals during the 18th and 19th centuries. Not to be outdone, Corning Museum of Glass allows you to experience the recording of the music of a Glass Harmonica, like this one.
The sound of this harmonica was determined by the sizes of the glasses. In 1762, Benjamin Franklin improved the process of making music by rubbing the moistened rims of glasses. He attached perfectly tuned glass bowls to a horizontal spindle, which was set in motion by the foot. The instrument, attracted the interest of many composers, including Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Richard Strauss.