Word: hydraulus
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Dates: during 1934-1934
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Roman emperors liked the organ because it was the loudest wind instrument. They called it an hydraulus because air was fed into its pipes by a water contrivance. In the Seventh Century Pope Vitalian recommended an organ for churches with a view to improving the singing of congregations. The first keys were as big as the treadle of a knife-grinder's machine. Strength was the first requisite of a player, who struck at the great slabs with his fist, had the title of "organ-beater." Early in the 15th Century pedals were introduced because the bass keys were...
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