ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Viola organista

So, a viola organista is a special kind of musical instrument that was invented by a man named Leonardo da Vinci a long, long time ago. It's kind of like a piano or a keyboard, but it's special because it's actually a combination of a bunch of different instruments!

When you play the viola organista, it sounds like a mix between a violin (which is a small, high-pitched instrument), a cello (which is larger and has a deeper sound), and a harpsichord (which is like an old-fashioned piano that makes a plucking sound instead of a pressing sound).

This instrument is very special because it's played by turning a special wheel while pressing down on the keys, instead of hitting the keys to make sound like a regular piano. It's like riding a bike and playing music at the same time!

Even though this instrument was invented a long time ago, people are still able to play it today and make beautiful music. It's not something you hear every day, but it sure is interesting and unique!