double reed instrument crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the clue "double reed instrument", you've come to the right place. We've compiled all possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "double reed instrument crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
OBOE: A slender woodwind instrument with a conical bore and a double-reed mouthpiece, commonly found in orchestras.
7 Letters
BASSOON: A large, low-pitched woodwind instrument of the oboe family, characterized by its long, conical bore and double reed.
More About "double reed instrument crossword clue"
Double reed instruments are a fascinating category within the woodwind family, distinguished by their unique method of sound production. Unlike single reed instruments (like clarinets and saxophones) or flutes, which rely on air blown across an edge or a single vibrating reed, double reed instruments use two pieces of cane that vibrate against each other when air is forced between them.
The Oboe, a soprano-range instrument, is perhaps the most iconic double reed, known for its clear, penetrating, and sometimes mournful tone. Its origins can be traced back to the medieval shawm. The Bassoon, on the other hand, provides the bass voice for the double reed family, offering a rich, resonant sound often described as melancholic or humorous depending on its context. Both instruments are mainstays in orchestral music, chamber ensembles, and solo repertoire, contributing significantly to the texture and color of classical music.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count: Always check the number of letters required for the answer. For "double reed instrument", OBOE (4 letters) and BASSOON (7 letters) are strong contenders, but sometimes longer or less common instruments like COR ANGLAIS (English Horn) might appear in trickier puzzles.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: While OBOE is often the first instrument that comes to mind, remember that puzzles love variety. If OBOE doesn't fit the letter count or other intersecting clues, explore other members of the double reed family.
- Cross-Reference with Solved Letters: Use letters from already solved adjacent clues to narrow down possibilities. If you have an 'O' in the first position or a 'N' towards the end, it can significantly help.
- Contextual Clues: Sometimes the clue might hint at a specific musical era (e.g., "Baroque double reed") or a role (e.g., "orchestral double reed"), which can guide you to a more specific answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What defines a double reed instrument?
A double reed instrument produces sound when two pieces of cane (the 'reeds') vibrate against each other as air is blown between them. This vibration then resonates within the instrument's body, creating a distinct tone.
Are oboes and bassoons the only common double reed instruments in crosswords?
While OBOE and BASSOON are the most frequently encountered answers for "double reed instrument" clues, other less common answers could include COR ANGLAIS (English Horn), OBOE D'AMORE, or CONTRABASSOON, depending on the puzzle's difficulty and specific wording.
How can I identify a double reed instrument in a crossword if the clue is vague?
Look for clues related to orchestras, woodwind sections, specific musical periods (e.g., Baroque, Classical for Oboe), or even clues about a distinctive, reedy sound. The number of letters in the answer is often the strongest hint.