Woodwind instruments

Woodwind instruments derive their name from the fact that they are traditionally crafted from ebony or other dense hardwoods. While modern flutes are now made of metal, their sound‑producing mechanism still classifies them as woodwinds. Woodwinds generally come in two main shapes: cylindrical, as seen in the flute and clarinet, and conical, as in the oboe and bassoon. With a broad tonal range, a mellow timbre, and great expressive power, woodwinds play pivotal roles in ensembles and also serve as important solo instruments. In wind bands, the most commonly used woodwinds include the flute, clarinet, saxophone, oboe, English horn, and bassoon.