William Zeitler Demonstrates the Glass Armonica

Benjamin Franklin invented a complicated musical instrument called the glass armonica as a way of simplifying the usual method of playing music on wine glasses. William Zeitler explains how it works and then shows us what it sounds like. Hint: it's very pretty. So if you are tired of reaching too far and spilling water while playing your glass harp, the glass armonica is a pricy and beautiful alternative. If you're in the mood for something more familiar and festive, here is Zeitler playing "The Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy" from Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker.



(via Laughing Squid)