As one might expect, the word Orchestrion is used to describe an instrument which simulates the sound of a small orchestra. It was first coined in the middle of the nineteenth century. The early orchestrions were developments of the flute-playing clocks popular at the time of Mozart and Haydn, and were built largely in the Black Forest area of southern Germany. Imhof & Mukle and Welte & Sons were two firms which soon established themselves as inventors of superb instruments with surprisingly refined tonal qualities.
The first orchestrions contained wooden barrels, often pinned in a helical (corkscrew) format so that a complete overture could be heard during several revolutions of the cylinder. In 1887, the Welte Company pioneered the use of paper rolls and almost overnight the clumsy wooden barrels became obsolete. During the 1890s electricity began to find its way into the homes of the wealthy and it was soon used to power their gigantic orchestrions. Our large Imhof and Mukle instrument, built in 1899, is still running smoothly on its original motor!

The first orchestrions contained organ pipes which were supplemented by a few drums and cymbals so that the musical effect was that of a brass, or military band. The later orchestrions contained a much greater proportion of percussion instruments and the effect was that of small dance orchestra.

The 'Clarabella' built in Leipzig by Popper & Co. during the 'teens, contained no pipework at all. The basic musical foundation is supplied by an upright piano mechanism hidden at the back of the case. Visitors not only enjoy the strident, rhythmic music which is so characteristic of this instrument, but they also delight in the moving picture and lighting effects which enhance the performance.

For more information on the Orchestrions in the collection please select the appropriate link:

The Imhof & Mukle Orchestrion