portative

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Leading from a portative keyboard in front of the orchestra, he brought a beautifully blended sound from the 16 voices of the chorus, rich in dynamic variety and always sensitive to Bach’s piquant dissonances.

From Washington Post • Mar. 19, 2018

Kahane conducted from an inaudible harpsichord and, in the middle section, a barely audible portative organ.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 26, 2016

Kent Tritle, who conducts three “Messiah” performances with two different choruses at Carnegie Hall next week, was a comforting presence at the portative organ; Philip Smith handled trumpet solos with blazing assurance.

From New York Times • Dec. 14, 2011

Mr. Koopman was his usual animated self, conducting from a portative organ and adding fillips to cadences: sometimes illuminating, sometimes weirdly perky.

From New York Times • Apr. 16, 2011

They stopped, with an unexpected grace-note on the portative, and Lancelot said: “Your voice is good. I’m afraid mine is getting rusty.”

From "The Once and Future King" by T. H. White