The musical genre Fantasie (or Fantasy) shares a deep connection with the idea of improvisation, often characterized by its free form and imaginative structure. Like Impromptu and Ex tempore works, a Fantasie typically resists strict formal constraints, allowing the composer to explore unexpected modulations, shifting moods, and personal expression without adhering to classical forms such as sonata or rondo.

However, while Fantasie compositions may evoke the spontaneity of improvisation, they are usually carefully composed and not created in the moment. This distinguishes them from truly improvised music, which is conceived and performed simultaneously. In this way, the Fantasie balances between structured composition and the illusion of impulsive creativity—bridging the intuitive and the intentional. In this case, Fantasie für Clavichord is clearly improvised.

"Clavichord" is a historical keyboard instrument that was widely used from the late Middle Ages through the Classical period. It produces sound by striking metal strings with small brass blades called tangents, which remain in contact with the strings as long as the key is pressed.

Known for its quiet and intimate sound, the clavichord allows for expressive techniques such as vibrato (called "bebung"). Because of its sensitivity and dynamic subtlety, it was often favored for private music-making, practice, and composition. In this recording, a physically modeled Neupert clavichord is being played.