Claviola

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The Claviola is a musical instrument that was designed in the 1960s by Hohner technician and designer Ernst Zacharias (inventor of the Pianet and Clavinet). The instrument was produced for a few months in the 1990s before being discontinued.

Similar to a melodica, but worn like an accordion, the claviola has a set of piano keys on the right side that range 2 1/2 octaves. The left side is a set of pipes that range in length depending on the corresponding pitch.

The Hohner Claviola is best known for its use by the band One Ring Zero and the jazz/folk musician Misha Alperin (Moscow Art Trio). Other musicians who use the Hohner Claviola include Rob Schwimmer (Polygraph Lounge), John Medeski, Rob Burger, Michael Hearst, and Rachelle Garniez.