ca. 1920
This instrument was invented in France in 1886 by Auguste Mustel. In the celesta, the hammers strike metal plates – usually steel – to produce the bell-like, magical sound. It is often used for special effects in operas, ballets, symphonies, and more. The most familiar use of the celesta is Tchaikovsky’s Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy from The Nutcracker ballet.
Acquired in 1996
Brass plate: Mustel Paris
4 octaves (C-c2)