crossword clue double reed instrument – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your ultimate resource for solving the clue 'crossword clue double reed instrument'. Below you'll find comprehensive answers, detailed explanations, and helpful tips to complete your puzzle and deepen your knowledge of musical instruments.
Solutions for "crossword clue double reed instrument" by Letter Count
4 Letters
OBOE: A woodwind instrument with a conical bore and a double-reed mouthpiece, known for its distinctive tone.
7 Letters
BASSOON: A large, low-pitched woodwind instrument of conical bore, using a double reed bent back on itself.
More About "Double Reed Instruments"
Double reed instruments are a fascinating category within the woodwind family, characterized by their unique sound production mechanism. Unlike single-reed instruments (like clarinets or saxophones) or flutes, they produce sound when two pieces of cane, bound together, vibrate against each other as air is blown between them. This distinct design gives them their characteristic rich, often piercing, or mellow tones, depending on the instrument.
The OBOE, with its bright and sometimes melancholic sound, is a prominent member of this family, frequently featured as a solo instrument in orchestral and chamber music. The BASSOON, on the other hand, provides the lower, more resonant voice, often anchoring the woodwind section with its warm and expressive capabilities. Both instruments require significant skill and embouchure control from the player due to the sensitive nature of the double reed.
Beyond the common OBOE and BASSOON, the double reed family also includes instruments like the COR ANGLAIS (English Horn), which is essentially an alto oboe, and historical instruments such as the SHAWM or DULCIAN, predecessors to modern double reed instruments. Understanding these instruments not only helps with crosswords but also enriches one's appreciation for orchestral music.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count: Always check the number of letters required for the answer. This is the most crucial filter for narrowing down possibilities, especially for clues like 'double reed instrument' which can have multiple answers of varying lengths.
- Think of Synonyms and Related Concepts: Crossword clues often use indirect or metaphorical language. For musical instruments, consider their family (woodwind), their role in an orchestra, or even famous pieces they are known for.
- Utilize Cross-References: If you're stuck on a clue, look at the intersecting words you've already filled in. The letters they provide can often unlock the missing answer for the challenging clue.
- Context is Key: Pay attention to any additional words in the clue. For example, 'large double reed instrument' would strongly point to BASSOON, while just 'double reed instrument' might allow for OBOE.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common double reed instruments found in crosswords?
Common double reed instruments that often appear as crossword answers include OBOE and BASSOON. Less common but possible answers might be FAGOTT (German for Bassoon) or SHAWM (a historical predecessor) depending on the clue's specificity and the puzzle's difficulty.
How do I identify a double reed instrument in a crossword clue?
Look for clues related to woodwind instruments, orchestral sounds, specific parts of an orchestra, or descriptions of the instrument's sound (e.g., 'reedy sound') or shape. The term 'double reed' might be mentioned directly, or implied through context.
Are there other types of reed instruments besides double reed?
Yes, there are single reed instruments (like clarinets and saxophones, which use a single cane reed vibrating against a mouthpiece) and free-reed instruments (like harmonicas and accordions, where reeds vibrate freely within a frame). Double reed instruments are unique in their use of two pieces of cane vibrating against each other.