Different Kinds of Music Instruments

Woodwind instruments are played by blowing through an instrument made of wood, plastic, or metal. Often, these instruments incorporate the use of a reed, which is a small strip of wood attached to the instrument’s mouth piece. Woodwind instruments include the flute, clarinet, oboe, piccolo, saxophone, and variations on those instruments. To play a woodwind, a person needs a strong embouchure (the way you hold your mouth on the instrument) and a large lung capacity.

Brass instruments are generally made of metal (brass), and are played by blowing air through the instrument and using valves to change the notes. Popular brass instruments include trumpets, trombones, tubas, and French horns. Brass instruments also require a strong embouchure and significant lung capacity. They can be found in bands and orchestras alike.

Percussion instruments are played by hitting them. From the noisy snare drum to the soft marimba, percussion instruments provide variety to any musical group. Percussionists have to be multi-talented, as they must learn to play several instruments of different types. From the triangle to the timpani, a percussion section lends backbone and beat to a musical arrangement.

String instruments are commonly found in orchestras. They include violins, violas, cellos, and bass instruments. String instruments can be plucked or strummed with the use of a bow. String instruments are popular for classical musical arrangements, although they can produce any style of music.

Keyboard instruments are technically considered part of the percussion family, although they tend to exist in their own right. Pianos, electric keyboards, and synthesizers fall under this category and are often played alone or as accompaniment for vocal musical performances.
Guitars are string instruments, but again often exist as their own category. Guitar music can range from acoustic to heavy metal, and a single guitarist can play alone or as part of a band or arrangement. You can find guitars almost anywhere, from church services to rock concerts.