Clavichord
With its unique sound, touch sensitivity, and ability to convey the most delicate nuances, the clavichord was a preferred instrument in the 18th century.
Due to its unique expressive features, size, elegance, and affordability the clavichord was accessible, making it the first choice for individuals who wanted to learn the keyboard.
The action of the clavichord is unique among all keyboard instruments in that one part of the action simultaneously initiates the sound vibration while at the same time defining the endpoint of the vibrating string, and thus its pitch.
Because of this intimate contact between the player's hand and the production of sound, the clavichord has been referred to as the most intimate of keyboard instruments.
Despite its extremely low volume, it has considerable expressive power, the player being able to control attack, duration, and volume, and even provide certain subtle effects of swelling of tone and a type of vibrato unique to the clavichord.