Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'harpsichord'

English Word: harpsichord

Key Russian Translations:

• клавесин [klɐˈvʲesʲɪn] - [Formal, Used in musical contexts]

Frequency: Low (This term is specialized and primarily used in discussions of classical music, not in everyday conversation.)

Difficulty: Intermediate (B2) - Learners with basic Russian vocabulary may find it challenging due to its musical specificity, but it's straightforward for those familiar with instrument names.

Pronunciation (Russian):

клавесин: [klɐˈvʲesʲɪn]

Note on клавесин: The stress is on the third syllable ('вес'). Be mindful of the palatalized 'в' sound, which is common in Russian but may be tricky for English speakers. Variations in regional accents might slightly alter vowel length.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

A keyboard instrument with strings plucked by quills, commonly used in Baroque music.

Translation(s) & Context:

• клавесин - Used in formal musical descriptions, such as in concert programs or historical texts about classical music.

Usage Examples:

• В концерте прозвучит клавесин Баха.

  In the concert, Bach's harpsichord will be featured.

• Клавесин имеет уникальный тембр, отличающийся от пианино.

  The harpsichord has a unique timbre that differs from the piano.

• Музыкант мастерски играет на клавесине в стиле барокко.

  The musician skillfully plays the harpsichord in the Baroque style.

• В музее выставлен старинный клавесин XVIII века.

  In the museum, there is an antique harpsichord from the 18th century on display.

• Клавесин используется в ансамблях для создания аутентичного звучания эпохи.

  The harpsichord is used in ensembles to create an authentic sound of the era.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Клавесин" is a masculine noun in the second declension. It follows standard Russian noun declension patterns for inanimate objects. Below is a table outlining its key inflections:

Note: This noun does not have irregular forms, making it relatively straightforward for learners.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms: клавес (a less formal or archaic variant, often used in historical contexts); клавикорд (clavichord, similar but distinct instrument)
• Antonyms: None directly applicable, as this is a specific instrument name. However, пианино (piano) could be considered a modern contrast in keyboard instruments.

Related Phrases:

• Играть на клавесине - To play the harpsichord (Used in musical performance contexts, emphasizing historical accuracy).
• Клавесин Баха - Bach's harpsichord (Refers to works or instruments associated with Johann Sebastian Bach).
• Реставрация клавесина - Restoration of the harpsichord (Common in discussions of antique instruments).

Usage Notes:

"Клавесин" directly corresponds to "harpsichord" in English and is the standard term in Russian for this instrument. It is typically used in formal or educational settings, such as music history classes or concerts. Be aware of its masculine gender in Russian sentences, which affects adjective agreements (e.g., "старинный клавесин" for "antique harpsichord"). When choosing between synonyms like "клавес," opt for "клавесин" in modern contexts for clarity. Avoid using it in casual conversations, as it may sound overly technical.

Common Errors:

• Error: Confusing "клавесин" with "пианино" (piano) due to similar keyboard nature. Incorrect: "Я играю на пианино Баха" (implying a piano when referring to Bach's harpsichord works). Correct: "Я играю на клавесине Баха." Explanation: "Пианино" is a modern instrument, while "клавесин" is historical; this mix-up can alter the intended historical context.

• Error: Incorrect declension, e.g., using nominative in all cases. Incorrect: "О клавесин" (wrong genitive). Correct: "О клавесине." Explanation: Russian requires proper case endings; always adjust based on sentence structure to avoid grammatical errors.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, the "клавесин" is strongly associated with Baroque music and composers like Bach and Handel. It symbolizes the elegance of 17th- and 18th-century European courts, which influenced Russian nobility during the Petrine era. Learning this term can enhance appreciation for Russia's classical music heritage, as seen in performances by ensembles like the Moscow State Academic Philharmonic.

Related Concepts:

• пианино
• органа
• клавинета