celesta

[ suh-les-tuh ]

noun

1. a musical instrument consisting principally of a set of graduated steel plates struck with hammers that are activated by a keyboard.

celesta

/ sɪˈlɛst; sɪˈlɛstə /

noun

1. music a keyboard percussion instrument consisting of a set of steel plates of graduated length that are struck with key-operated hammers. The tone is an ethereal tinkling sound. Range: four octaves upwards from middle C

Word History and Origins

Origin of celesta¹

1895–1900; < French célesta, for céleste, literally, heavenly ( celestial ); the -a for -e makes the name pseudo-Italian

Word History and Origins

Origin of celesta¹

C19: from French, Latinized variant of céleste heavenly

Example Sentences

The oscillating buzz of piano and celesta in the “Chant d’Amour II” section seemed to cast a blur over a lush melody in the violins.

From New York Times

Yet it’s still plenty sumptuous, thanks to Zimmermann’s work with harp, celesta and winds.

From New York Times

Bell's work leaned on his background in classical music, and he introduced instruments like the celesta, sitar, oboe, bassoon, cor anglais and bells into his rococo arrangements.

From BBC

The music turns blocky and dramatic again, with the vehemence of a Bernard Herrmann film score, before a softening ensemble, with touches of celesta and piano, is surprised by a brief, fierce coda.

From New York Times

The violist eventually plays a quietly piercing, glassy high note, to which the celesta adds another bell-like, candied element.

From New York Times