What is a Celesta Musical Instrument?
The celesta is a keyboard instrument that produces a soft, bell-like sound. It looks similar to a piano but is smaller and uses metal plates struck by hammers to generate notes. Also known as a “celeste” or a “bell-piano“, its unique tone makes it popular in orchestras and music compositions for creating a magical or dreamy effect.
In this beginner’s guide, we’ll review what the celesta musical instrument is by examining what it sounds like, how it’s played, its long history, its popularity, how its made, and also explore some of the great tunes and compositions it has produced across many music genres.
How Popular is the Celesta?
Using Google Search Trends as an indicator of instrument popularity, we can see that the celesta is highly popular across European countries as well as North and South America. This diversity reflects the instruments use in music genres such as Classical, Jazz, Rock, Pop and Film scores which would have a more western orientated audience.
Source: Google Trends
Celesta Instrument Facts
- The celesta was invented in 1886 by Parisian harmonium builder Auguste Mustel.
- It is classified under the Hornbostel–Sachs system as a struck idiophone, because its sound is produced by striking metal plates.
- Despite its keyboard appearance, the celesta is a actually defined as a percussion instrument being much close in its mechanism to a glockenspiel than a piano.
- Tchaikovsky was one of the first composers to feature the celesta in orchestral works, notably in “The Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” from “The Nutcracker.”
- A person who plays the celesta is called a celestist.
- The celesta can weigh between 100 to 350 pounds, depending on its size and model.
- Its dimensions can vary, but a typical celesta might be around 40 inches wide, 20 inches deep, and 40 inches high.
- Celestas are used across various genres, including classical, jazz, and film scores, for their ethereal quality.
- High-quality celestas can be quite expensive, with professional models costing upwards of $20,000.
- The celesta has a pedal similar to a piano’s sustain pedal, which allows notes to resonate longer.
- The celesta requires regular tuning and maintenance, similar to a piano.
- The instrument’s unique tone quality comes from the special alloy used for the metal plates, which is typically a combination of steel and copper.
What Does a Celesta Instrument Sound Like?
The celesta produces a delicate, bell-like sound that resonates with a fairy-tale like quality, enchanting listeners with its ethereal tones. For a closer listen to its magical sound, watch the video below.
How to Play the Celesta Instrument
Players interact with the celesta much like they would with a piano, using both hands to create melodies and chords. However, the technique can vary slightly due to the celesta’s lighter touch and the ethereal quality of sound desired. The inclusion of a pedal, similar to the sustain pedal on a piano, enables sustainment of notes, adding to the instrument’s dreamy, lingering effect.
When a celestist presses a key, it triggers a hammer inside the instrument to strike a metal plate. These plates, made from a special alloy, are meticulously tuned to specific notes, allowing the celesta to emit its characteristic bell-like tones.
Unlike a piano, where hammers strike strings, the celesta’s hammers make contact with metal bars, each residing within its own resonator box. This design is crucial for amplifying the sound, enabling the instrument to produce its soft yet penetrating chimes.
The action of the hammers is precise, ensuring that the player can control dynamics and articulation with a finesse similar to that of a pianist.
Celesta Instrument Description
- Plates
At the heart of this instrument are the metal plates, typically made from a special alloy that often includes steel and copper. These plates are the primary source of the celesta’s bell-like tones, struck by felt-covered hammers that ensure a soft, mellow sound upon impact.
- Hammers
The hammers themselves are a crucial part of the mechanism, designed to hit the metal plates with precision. They are mounted on a mechanism similar to that of a piano, with each hammer connected to keys on the keyboard.
- Keys
The keys, made from wood, are coated with a layer of ivory or, in more contemporary models, synthetic materials designed to mimic the feel and responsiveness of ivory.
- Resonators
Resonators, usually crafted from wood, amplify the sound of the vibrating plates. The quality of wood, such as hardwood or softwood, influences the instrument’s resonance and tonal character, making it an essential factor in the celesta’s construction.
The resonators are strategically placed beneath the metal plates to maximize sound projection and volume.
- Frame
The celesta’s frame, which holds all these components together, is typically made from high-quality wood or metal, providing stability and durability. Wood frames add a natural warmth to the sound, while metal frames offer robustness and a slightly brighter tone.
- Pedals
Pedals, similar to those on a piano, allow the musician to sustain or dampen the sound. These are connected to a mechanism that affects the dampers, usually made from a soft material like felt, which rests against the plates to mute the sound when not in play.
Different Types of Celesta Instrument to Learn
Several types of celesta instruments cater to different playing styles and settings, offering a range of options for musicians. Below are the various types one can learn to play, each with its unique pros and cons.
Traditional Celesta
- Pros: Offers a rich, authentic sound with a wide dynamic range, ideal for classical and orchestral music.
- Cons: Its size and weight make it less portable, and it can be quite expensive.
Celestette
- Pros: More compact and portable than the traditional celesta, making it suitable for smaller spaces and easier transportation.
- Cons: Limited range and volume compared to the full-size instrument.
Digital Celesta
- Pros: Offers versatility with adjustable sounds, volume control, and the ability to use headphones for private practice.
- Cons: Lacks the nuanced tone and mechanical feel of acoustic celestas, which might not satisfy purists.
Practice Celesta
- Pros: Designed for beginners, it provides a cost-effective way to learn the instrument without investing in a professional model.
- Cons: Sound quality and range are often inferior to more advanced models, which might limit progression.
Musical Origins of the Celesta
The name “celesta” derives from the French word “céleste,” meaning heavenly or celestial, reflecting the instrument’s ethereal sound.
The table below outlines the Celestas evolution from its initial design to an instrument with a unique place in orchestras, jazz bands, film scores, and digital music production.
| Year | Development |
|---|---|
| 1886 | Invented by Auguste Mustel. Designed as a keyboard instrument with metal plates. |
| Early 1900s | Gained popularity in orchestral music, notably used by Tchaikovsky. |
| 1920s-1930s | Expanded role in jazz and popular music. |
| Mid-20th Century | Technological improvements in manufacture and design for better sound quality. |
| Late 20th Century | Became a staple in film scores and soundtracks for its unique sound. |
| 21st Century | Digital versions developed, offering new possibilities for composers and performers. |
Celesta Players of Note
The celesta, with its ethereal sound, has captivated audiences and inspired musicians for over a century. Here are five celebrated celesta musicians to listen out for.
Jacques Tchamkerten
From Switzerland, Tchamkerten is renowned for his virtuosic celesta performances across classical and contemporary repertoires. His contributions have significantly expanded the instrument’s presence in concert halls worldwide.
Michel Legrand
The French composer and pianist Michel Legrand, known for his scores in cinema, also made notable contributions to celesta music. His use of the instrument in film scores has imbued many scenes with a magical, unforgettable quality.
John Williams
An American composer, Williams has utilized the celesta’s distinctive sound to create some of the most memorable moments in film music, including the iconic “Hedwig’s Theme” from the Harry Potter series.
Gustavo Dudamel
Hailing from Venezuela, Dudamel is a conductor known for his innovative programming, which often includes pieces featuring the celesta. His performances have brought the instrument’s unique sound to a broader audience.
Viktoriya Yermolyeva
A Ukrainian pianist, Yermolyeva has gained fame for her adaptations of rock and metal songs for the piano and celesta. Her unique approach showcases the instrument’s versatility beyond its traditional classical and orchestral settings.
Celesta Music to Listen Out For
When exploring traditional tunes and compositions that feature the celesta, there are several key works that stand out for their historical significance and the beauty they bring to this instrument’s repertoire.
Here are five essential pieces that demonstrate the celesta’s enchanting sound and its role in music history:
“The Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (1892)
“The Nutcracker” ballet score marked one of the first major uses of the celesta in orchestral music. Tchaikovsky was enchanted by the instrument’s sound, and his composition showcases its magical timbre, embodying the essence of the Sugar Plum Fairy’s delicate dance. The celesta’s sparkling tones perfectly illustrate the fairy-tale atmosphere, making this piece a superb example of the instrument’s charm.
“Symphony No. 6” by Gustav Mahler (1903-1904)
Mahler used the celesta to add a haunting, otherworldly dimension to the Andante movement of his Sixth Symphony. The instrument’s use here exemplifies how its sound can evoke deep emotion and complexity, contributing to the symphony’s profound impact.
“Sancta Susanna” by Paul Hindemith (1922)
In this early opera by Hindemith, the celesta plays a crucial role in creating an eerie and mystical atmosphere, highlighting the composer’s innovative use of the instrument to enhance the opera’s dramatic and psychological depth.
“Wozzeck” by Alban Berg (1925)
Berg’s opera “Wozzeck” utilizes the celesta to underscore moments of tenderness and insanity, showcasing the instrument’s versatility. Its inclusion in the score amplifies the tragedy and intensity of the narrative, proving the celesta’s ability to convey a wide range of emotions.
“Appalachian Spring” by Aaron Copland (1944)
In this iconic American ballet score, Copland uses the celesta to add layers of brightness and hope, embodying the pioneering spirit. The celesta’s light, airy sound contributes to the pastoral and optimistic tone of the piece, highlighting its ability to evoke imagery and emotion.
These compositions, spanning from the late 19th to the mid-20th century, demonstrate the celesta’s versatility and its ability to bring a unique, otherworldly quality to music. Whether adding a touch of magic to ballets, contributing to the emotional depth of symphonies, or enhancing the dramatic tension in operas, the celesta remains a distinctive instrument in the classical music genre.
The Celesta in Popular Culture
The celesta, with its fairy-tale sound, has left a significant mark on film, TV, and popular rock music, enchanting audiences with its unique timbre. Here are four where the celesta’s presence is both prominent and recognizable:
1. “Hedwig’s Theme” from Harry Potter series by John Williams (2001)
John Williams masterfully employed the celesta to craft “Hedwig’s Theme,” the musical signature of the Harry Potter film series. Its magical, twinkling sound perfectly captures the wonder and mystique of the wizarding world, making it instantly recognizable to fans around the globe.
2. “Mr. Sandman” by The Chordettes (1954)
This classic tune features the celesta, contributing to its dreamy, nostalgic feel. “Mr. Sandman” became a defining sound of the 1950s, showcasing the instrument’s versatility beyond classical music and into the realms of pop and rock.
3. “Everyday” by Buddy Holly (1957)
Buddy Holly’s “Everyday” uses the celesta to add a whimsical, light-hearted layer to this rock and roll classic. The instrument’s distinctive sound complements Holly’s vocals, creating a timeless hit that continues to resonate with audiences.
4. “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” from Neptune’s Daughter by Frank Loesser (1949)
Featured in the film “Neptune’s Daughter,” this Academy Award-winning song utilizes the celesta to enhance its cozy, winter wonderland vibe. Its use in this context highlights the instrument’s ability to add a sparkling, festive touch to music.
These compositions illustrate the celesta’s enduring appeal across various music genres, from the enchanting soundtracks of films to the iconic tracks of rock and pop. Its unique sound continues to captivate listeners, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.
Instruments Similar to a Celesta
There are several other instruments around the world that share similarities in sound and mechanism to the Celesta. Here’s a look at five instruments that echo its charm, each with its own distinctive characteristics:
Glockenspiel
The glockenspiel is a percussion instrument consisting of metal bars struck with mallets to produce sound. It shares the celesta’s bright, bell-like tone but is played in a manner similar to a xylophone. Widely used in orchestras and marching bands, the glockenspiel’s clear, piercing sound cuts through ensembles, adding a shimmering layer to the music.
Vibraphone
The vibraphone, often found in jazz and orchestral settings, features metal bars and motor-driven resonators that create a vibrato effect. Mallets are used to strike the bars, producing soft, mellow tones with a sustain that can be controlled via a pedal, much like the celesta. Its unique sound is a staple in both contemporary and classical compositions.
Marimba
Originating from Africa and Latin America, the marimba consists of wooden bars struck with mallets, with resonators suspended underneath to amplify the sound. It produces rich, warm tones that range from deep to bright, offering a broader musical palette than the celesta. The marimba is celebrated for its versatility and depth, finding a place in various musical genres.
Xylophone
The xylophone features wooden bars arranged similarly to a piano’s keys, played with mallets. It produces a sharp, bright sound that is more resonant and higher-pitched compared to the marimba. The instrument’s lively timbre makes it a favorite in orchestral, educational, and solo performances.
Tubular Bells
Also known as chimes, tubular bells are large, vertical tubes that are struck on the top with a hammer to produce sound. They offer a sonorous, resonant tone that closely mimics church bells. Used both in orchestras and rock bands, tubular bells add a grand, ceremonial quality to music, evoking a sense of awe and majesty.
