#Exhibit of the Month

The music is recorded on a cylinder with pins. The interior is divided into three compartments: the first contains the crank and the mechanism that operates the cylinder with pins, the second - the cylinder with pins and vibrating lamellae, and the third - two levers for starting and stopping the melody. The cylinder holds seven melodies by W.A. Mozart, which are played through the vibration of steel teeth arranged in a comb, whose tips are adjacent to the cylinder. The lid of the box features floral marquetry on its outer surface. This cultural asset is classified under the "Tezaur" category.

The Story of Musical Boxes

Musical boxes originated in Switzerland at the end of the 18th century. In 1796, watchmaker Antoine Favre-Salomon invented a pocket watch with an incorporated musical mechanism, using the principle of tuned metal lamellae. The invention quickly spread, soon leading to the creation of musical boxes independent of watches.

Initially invented and built for the salon entertainment of the aristocracy, musical boxes quickly evolved, capturing the market and public interest with these entertainment machines. The musical box industry was predominantly centered in Switzerland. Geneva remains the cradle of the musical box, even though the art of crafting these musical wonders spread to other regions of Switzerland - such as Jura, Auberson, and Sainte Croix - and later to other countries, including France, Germany, and Czechoslovakia. Some of the most notable manufacturers of musical boxes include: Mermod Frères, Paillard, Reuge, Thorens, Cuendet, Junod, Nicole Frères, Ducommun-Girod, Brémond, and L'Epee.

The musical box operated on a relatively simple principle: a cylinder with pins (cylindrical pins) would, through rotation, actuate a metal "comb" tuned to specific musical notes, both being concealed from view in one of the box's compartments. By turning the cylinder - with the help of a spring mechanism (similar to that of watches) - the pins would strike the steel "teeth" of the comb, causing them to vibrate and produce different musical notes. A musical box could have a limited number of melodies "programmed" onto the cylinder - from 4 to 12.

Over time, the cylinders were replaced with interchangeable metal discs. Based on this operating principle, large musical boxes emerged in cafés and taverns, which could be activated by inserting a coin, allowing users to select their preferred disc.

Besides the ingenious mechanism, musical boxes also stood out for the artistry of their exterior decorations, featuring materials such as precious woods, mother-of-pearl, ivory, and metal.

The decline of musical boxes began with the invention of the phonograph (1877) and the gramophone (1887). Production continued for a while, but by the early 20th century, most renowned companies had abandoned the business and started manufacturing other mechanical musical instruments.

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Events Archive

International Festival of Literature and Translation Chișinău (FILIT), Second Edition

September 26-29, 2024

The period from September 26-29, 2024, was marked by a multitude of engaging activities organized as part of the International Festival of Literature and Translation Chișinău (FILIT), in collaboration with the National Museum of History of Moldova. A festive atmosphere celebrating the written word prevailed throughout the festival.

The festival kicked off on September 26 at 9:30 AM with an opening ceremony hosted by the National Museum of History of Moldova. From the very first moments, the literary excitement was palpable, thanks to the presence of prominent personalities and captivating discussions. High school students from Chișinău had the opportunity to participate in an interactive literary game that stimulated their creativity and provided them with an unforgettable experience. This activity encouraged young people to engage with literature and express their thoughts and feelings through writing.

One of the most memorable moments was the "White Night of Poetry" on September 27, an event moderated by the charismatic poet Lena Chilari, which exceeded expectations with the intensity and beauty of the creative act. In the museum courtyard, over 20 poets recited their works with emotion, sharing profound sensitivity and inspiration with the audience. During the recital, the Cultural Center Subcarpați, alongside the band Floare de Maidan, performed their pieces with remarkable sensitivity, offering the audience a unique musical experience, captivating them with the depth and expressiveness of each song.

On the morning of September 28, I was impressed by the enthusiasm of the children who participated in the "History of Writing" workshop organized by the National Museum of History of Moldova. The workshop began with an engaging presentation, where the children, guided by Natalia Popovici, watched a PowerPoint about the history and techniques of writing, thus connecting them with the traditions of the past. Following this introduction, they had the opportunity to practice their newly acquired knowledge through calligraphy. This experience not only inspired them but also deepened their appreciation for the art of writing.

FILIT Chișinău 2024 was more than just a literature festival; it was a profound experience, an open space for cultural exchange, and a celebration of the written word. The events organized provided participants not only with immersion in the world of literature but also with a connection to tradition and culture, all combined in an accessible and engaging way.

For those who attended, the festival represented a source of inspiration and a rare opportunity to interact directly with authors, learn, and reflect on literature.