Musical instrument classification
In organology, the study of musical instruments, many methods of classifying instruments exist. Most methods are specific to a particular cultural group and were developed to serve that culture's musical needs. Culture-based classification methods sometimes break down when applied outside that culture. For example, a classification based on instrument use may fail when applied to another culture that uses the same instrument differently.
Variety of recorders from Martin Agricola's 1529 Musica instrumentalis deudsch (English: German Instrumental Music)
The serpent is a low-pitched early wind instrument in the brass family developed in the Renaissance era. It has a trombone-like mouthpiece, with tone holes and fingering like a woodwind instrument. It is named for its long, conical bore bent into a snakelike shape, and unlike most brass instruments is made from wood with an outer covering of leather. A distant ancestor of the tuba, the serpent is related to the cornett and was used for bass parts from the 17th to the early 19th centuries.
Serpent, late 18th century Italy. Civic Museum of Modena
Michel Godard performs on a serpent in the Adrabesa Quartet, 2020
Image: Manifattura italiana, Serpentone, fine sec. XVIII. Museo Civico di Modena, foto P. Terzi
Image: Serpent in C MET DP249360 white background