The woodwind family is made up
of instruments that use wind to play. These instruments are made or used
to be made of wood. Most of them have a reed which is a very thin piece of
wood that vibrates to make the sound.
The
Flute
The flute is the only woodwind without a reed. It is the
smallest and highest woodwind. You play the flute by blowing over
the mouthpiece. The flute used to be made of wood long time ago.
The
Clarinet
The clarinet has a reed. It is long a most always
black which is why it's nick name is the licorice stick.
The
Oboe
The oboe has a double reed which is like two reeds held
together. The sound is nasal in quality.
The Bassoon
The bassoon is the largest and lowest woodwind. It
has a double reed way out o\at the end of a tube. You have to sit to play
the bassoon. It has a raspy rough sound.