Tuesday 19 August 2014

Woodwind Instruments: What they are and How to Play Them


Woodwind instruments, also referred to as wind instruments, are a category of musical implements that are played by blowing wind on one end to produce sound on the other. They are hollow on the inside and include a couple of keys on the outside which are used to vary the sound that comes out when blown.

Woodwind instruments vary in models and a good number are differentiated by the design of their mouthpiece. There is one category known as the Single reed, which means they have one reed at the mouth piece held in place by a special metal ligature. Clarinets and Saxophones have this mouthpiece design, hence are categorized as Single reed.

The double reeds have a pair of reeds on the mouthpiece tied to each other. Because of this design, it may be a bit difficult trying to play it for the first time. However, the advantage of the double reed design is that the player can produce long phrased musical notes in just one breath. Examples of the double reeds include the Bassoon and the Oboe. Additionally, you can also customize the double reed mouthpiece to tune it to a sound you prefer.

Some woodwind instruments like the transverse flute work differently. Air is blown across the mouthpiece as opposed to the above wind instruments where air is blown through them. However, the flute also contains extra holes on the top which functions similarly to the keys found in the single reeds and double reeds.

Given the difficulty involved in playing a distinctive tune with wind instruments, it is important to first get some music lessons on the basics. There are several music shops in Sheffield where you can learn to play your first musical instrument. A notable music shop is the  Bluenote Music Shop.

If you need information, a repair or help with your woodwind instrument, please feel free to contact us on 0114 2303 400

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