sourdine

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sourdine (Fr.). Mute.
1. Mute, used in same sense as sordino. Mettez (put on), ôtez (take off) les sourdines.

2. Fr. name for early form of bn. (Ger. Sordun, It. sordone), also known as courtaut. Appeared first in 16th cent. and was made in several sizes from bass to descant. Had no bell, the sound coming from lateral hole at top near the crook. Had 12 finger-holes, some also having 2 keys.

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