Zimbelstern

As Zimbelstern or Cymbelstern is called an effect register in organs.

Zimbelsterne can be detected since the 15th century. Especially often they find themselves in baroque organs. There are also tools to meet with two or three Zimbelsternen.

Components and function

In a " Zimbelstern " is an effect register, which is usually made ​​up of two components: a sounding game work, and one to three rotating stars of metal or painted wood.

• The game work consists of a small number of bells, bells and also chimes shell ( the so-called cymbals ). It is usually within the organ, ie is not visible housed outside.
• "Second " component of the effect of the register is connected to the game works real " Zimbelstern " in the Prospectus. But the star is visible to the outside. Some organs have multiple visible stars that are either connected to a game is on the inside of the organ, or each one ( of several) game drive ( s) is assigned.

The commissioning of the effect register ( the " Zimbelsterns ") is carried from the organ console from, using a special switch or a separate tabs train, or even by a foot Ritts.

If the register is activated, you will hear from the organ, the blade (or ringing), the " cymbals " ( bells, singing bowls or rods ) while rotating the star visible to the outside.

Types and drive

There are different types or structures for such effect register.

Cymbals

As the " cymbals " are conventionally either claws bells, bells or singing bowls used. They are often made ​​of bronze, partly made ​​of brass or other metals.

Claves In modern Zimbelsternen instead used lately.

Conventional construction

In the conventional sound of instruments, there is a wooden structure with a rotating axis, driven either by an air stream, which is derived from the wind chest, or by a small electric motor.

• In the oldest construction of a Zimbelsterns were (and are still ) used in the rule claw or claws bells. The clamps are attached directly to the axis, namely " all around " around the axis. Rotates the axis, the bells ring out irregularly.

• In 1700 came up with a new design, in which bells and singing bowls ( shell bell ) were used with precision pitch. The cymbals are not on the axis, but are built next to each other firmly away from it, and are struck with hammers that are moved by the rotating axis. The bells ( shells) are usually tuned to a particular major chord and therefore not to be used easily in any key.

Newer designs

There are also some newer designs.

• Partial is dispensed onto a rotating axis, and the stop of the bells is electronically controlled.

• Come tone bars are used, bars mounted circular pendant. In the center is the axis with a finger, the tone bars " triggers ", so that the clinging together.

Use

The use of Zimbelsterns is generally done simultaneously with the organ playing, and just gives a triumphant organ music another additional ( perceived by many as solemnly ) accent. Classic application is especially the last verse of the Christmas carol " O Holy Night ", which is why the register is jokingly mentioned under organists also " Zimtstern ".