Musical Instruments

Musical instruments are objects used to create sound intended as music. These can range from complicated instruments, such as the organ, to simple devices like the triangle. Musical instruments are typically broken up into the following categories.

Voice As An Instrument

The human voice is often considered a musical instrument. Singing is probably the oldest form of music, and training the voice to perform is often as difficult as learning to play an instrument. Voice lessons are available to refine technique and sound, and talented singers are used in almost every type of music.

Percussion Instruments

Percussion instruments create sound when they are struck. The type of sound created depends on what material is being struck. Sometimes a tone is associated with percussion instruments, such as the cymbals or the triangle. Others, like the snare drum, do not have a tone. The sound created can range from very deep, loud and low, to very short, staccato and high, depending on the type of instrument used. Drums are the most well-known percussion instruments.

Wind Instruments

Wind instruments are divided into two subcategories: woodwinds and brass. Woodwinds create sound when air vibrates within the instrument. The note created is determined by the space in which the air vibrates. Woodwinds typically use reeds to funnel the air into the instrument. The noise is then controlled by opening and closing valves to control the flow of air. Some woodwinds, such as the flute, do not use reeds. Oboes, bagpipes, clarinets, and saxophones are all examples of woodwinds. Brass instruments, like woodwinds, use air vibrations to create sound. The lips are especially important in brass instruments, as their shape and vibration can control the type of sound that is created. They are also controlled by valves, or by slide valves (such as on the trombone). Common brass instruments include the trumpet, tuba, and coronet. The brass family also claims the saxophone.

String Instruments

String instruments use taught strings (or wires) to create their sound. The strings are struck, strummed, or rubbed in order to create vibrations. When carefully tuned, the vibrations will create exact notes that can be played separately or together. Pianos, violins, cellos, and harps are all types of string instruments.

Electronic Instruments

Electronic instruments are instruments designed to replicate the sounds of other instruments or create new sounds by using electronic means. The electric guitar is an example of this, as is the "keyboard synthesizer."