The Zimbelstern is a "toy" organ stop consisting of a metal or wooden star or wheel on which several small bells are mounted. When engaged, the star rotates, producing a continuous tinkling sound. It was common in northern Europe

Europe

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, Germany

Germany

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in particular, throughout the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries. After about 1700, the bells were tuned to particular notes. The device is probably most effective as a foil to light Baroque counterpoint of an upbeat nature, or hymns registered using a principal chorus of diapason stops.

External links

• Encyclopedia of organ stops entry for Zimbelstern
• More complete description of the Zimbelstern