reed instrument crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue 'reed instrument crossword clue', you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "reed instrument crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
OBOE: A woodwind instrument with a conical bore and a double reed.
5 Letters
SHAWM: A medieval and Renaissance double-reed instrument, an ancestor of the oboe.
7 Letters
BASSOON: A large double-reed woodwind instrument, known for its deep, resonant sound.
8 Letters
CLARINET: A single-reed woodwind instrument, popular in various music genres, recognizable by its cylindrical bore.
9 Letters
SAXOPHONE: A single-reed instrument, usually made of brass, widely used in jazz and classical music, known for its distinctive shape.
More About "reed instrument crossword clue"
Reed instruments are a fascinating category within the world of music, known for their distinct sounds produced by the vibration of a reed, or multiple reeds. In crosswords, clues like "reed instrument" are quite common, requiring solvers to recall specific examples from this diverse family. These instruments range from the classical double-reed oboe and bassoon to the popular single-reed clarinet and saxophone, and even include free-reed instruments like the harmonica or accordion.
Understanding the nuances of reed instruments can significantly boost your crossword-solving prowess. Clues might specify the type of reed (single vs. double), the material (wood vs. brass, as in the case of a saxophone), or the musical genre they are commonly associated with. Keeping a mental catalogue of these instruments, along with their defining characteristics and typical word lengths, is key to cracking such clues quickly and accurately.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Before thinking of specific instruments, check the number of letters required for the answer. This immediately narrows down your options significantly.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: While OBOE and CLARINET are common, don't forget less obvious but still common answers like SAXOPHONE, or even historical instruments like the SHAWM if the clue suggests it.
- Look for Adjectives: Sometimes the clue might include an adjective (e.g., "large reed instrument" for BASSOON, or "jazz reed instrument" for SAXOPHONE) which provides extra context and helps pinpoint the exact answer.
- Cross-Reference with Other Clues: Always use intersecting letters from other solved clues to confirm your "reed instrument" answer. This is the most reliable way to ensure accuracy.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a reed instrument in a crossword context?
In crosswords, a "reed instrument" typically refers to a woodwind instrument that produces sound using one or more vibrating reeds, such as a clarinet, oboe, or saxophone. It's a broad category often used for varied word lengths.
Are flutes considered reed instruments?
No, flutes are generally not considered reed instruments. While they are woodwind instruments, they produce sound by air blowing across an edge, rather than through a vibrating reed. This is a common distinction to remember in crosswords, as clues might try to trick you.
Why do specific instrument names appear frequently in crosswords?
Specific instrument names like OBOE, LUTE, or HARP are common in crosswords because they often have unique letter combinations and varied lengths that fit well into grids. They are part of a general knowledge category that puzzle setters frequently draw upon, often as straightforward definitions.