The Crumhorn was a popular instrument between the 14th and the 17th centuries. Music played on the crumhorn includes folk songs, sacred music, dances, and theater music. It was most frequently played by professional musicians at royal palaces and in larger town bands. Each crumhorn in a set played a different range, from bass upward. Professional players would own a complete set of crumhorns.
Family |
Woodwinds |
Pitch range |
Just over an octave. |
Material |
Usually maple or boxwood. |
Size |
Variable : this example is 17 in (44 cm) long. |
Origins |
The crumhorn probably developed in northern Italy toward the end of the 15th century but soon spread to Germany. |
Classification |
Aerophone: an instrument that produces its sound by the vibration of a column of air. |
And also... |
Crumhorns are mentioned in records of 1593-4 in Trier, Germany. Town watchmen were ordered to play wind instruments, including the crumhorn, from the church tower in the morning, at noon, and in the evening. |