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Woodwind instruments are one of the four major groups of instruments in an orchestra. Typical woodwind instruments are flutes, clarinets, oboes, bassoons and even saxophones. Not all woodwinds are made of wood however. For example, the clarinet and oboe are made from wood, but saxophones tend to be made from brass and modern flutes are made from metal. Music is produced by air flowing through a long, thin column. The lowest note is played with all the tone holes closed, when the column is longest. Opening up holes shortens the column successively, starting from the open end. At the other end there is something that controls airflow: an air jet for the flute family and cane reeds for other woodwinds.
Woodwind instruments often play together with all the other instruments of the orchestra, but they also get to play solos in the orchestra, unlike most of the string players. Not all woodwinds will be found in an orchestra. A clarinet is a common woodwind and is generally found in a typical western orchestra, whereas a saxophone can be incorporated into an orchestra but is generally found more in a jazz band or pop band.
A woodwind instrument may have different types within its family. The most common type of clarinet is a B flat clarinet, but a smaller E-flat clarinet can also be found. Saxophones have five types - soprano, alto, tenor, baritone and the rare bass. It is best to research the type of woodwind family you are planning on purchasing to ensure you buy the correct instrument for you.
The links below can provide you many options to buy your woodwind instrument. Whether you wish to buy a clarinet, saxophone, flute, bassoon or accessories for your instrument, search the links below for great deals and information.
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