Woodwind Family Traits and Sound Descriptions
The woodwind family includes tubes about two feet long producing bright birdlike tones when blown across the top. Players press keys to alter notes and today instruments are made of wood or metal. The oboe is longer with a pear-shaped end and a soft dreamy tone, while the flute and clarinet differ in length and timbre. The bassoon has a curved neck and bell-shaped end, producing a lower, sad sound.