Ophicleide

The ophicleide (pronounced {{IPA|}}) is a brass bass instrument related to the bugle. It was the structural cornerstone of the brass section of the Romantic orchestra, replacing the outdated serpent, a mediæval instrument. Its long tubing bends back on itself, and it has nine keys which cover the large tone holes.

Related Topics:
Pronounced - Brass - Bass - Instrument - Bugle - Romantic - Orchestra - Serpent - Tone hole

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It was first scored for in the opera Olimpie by Gaspare Spontini in 1819. Other famous works which use the ophicleide are Felix Mendelssohn's Overture to A Midsummer Night's Dream and Berlioz's Symphonie Fantastique.

Related Topics:
Opera - Gaspare Spontini - 1819 - Felix Mendelssohn - Overture to A Midsummer Night's Dream - Berlioz - Symphonie Fantastique

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The ophicleide was eventually succeeded by the tuba, although it remained popular in Italy until the early 20th century.

Related Topics:
Tuba - Italy - 20th century

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