Expert: Kenton Scott - 12/29/2010

Question
Dear Kenton,

I am writing a novel set in 1805.  I was surprised when one of my characters picked up a clarinet and began to play.  I need to know where I can find information and especially a photo of a clarinet likely to be used in 1805.  Also, now one of the other characters wants to play an instrument, too (they are so pushy).  It must be able to be easily carried on a trip.  Any suggestions what the second instrument could be, and, again, where could I find photos and information? I thought a flute, but perhaps something more exotic?

Suggestions?  

Thank you for your time.

Answer
Well the clarinet was certainly around in 1805, and had been for about a hundred years.  But it was a much more primitive device than what we know today as a clarinet.  The flute was also a much simpler instrument than the modern one.  Practically no brass instruments existed in anything similar to their modern forms existed, except for the trombone.

But the other issue is that wind instruments of that time were very expensive and were owned only by the rich or by professional musicians.  That began to change in the second quarter of the 19th century, as industrialization both made instruments more affordable and also that the general population had both money for purchasing instruments and at at least as importantly free time that could be used on entertainment.

String instruments such as guitars, lutes, and violins may be more likely choices for the period.

The National Music Museum on the internet may be a source for dates and images.