Music Tech Teacher, Musical Instrument Reference

Woodwind Woodwind instruments produce a sound by blowing into a mouthpiece. Some woodwind instruments use a reed to make the sounds play.

Brass Brass instruments are played by 'buzzing' the lips into the mouthpiece.

Percussion Percussion instruments are struck with sticks or mallets. Some percussion instruments are pitched, such as the xylophone, which can play different notes or sounds.

Strings You will find more String instruments than any other type in the orchestra. Most string instruments are played using a bow or by using the fingers to 'pluck' the strings.

Keyboard Family, sometimes considered as percussion instruments because the keys are struck with the fingers.

Help with the Instrument Families
by Ms. Garrett