Woodwind instruments have a rich history and are integral to a variety of musical genres, from classical orchestras to jazz bands, so if you’re thinking about taking up a woodwind instrument, you’re in for a rewarding experience.

At The Music Depot, we stock a wide range of woodwind instruments, each with its own unique sound and character. Here we will introduce you to some of the most popular woodwind instruments we carry.

What is a Woodwind Instrument?

Woodwind instruments are a family of musical instruments that produce sound when air is blown into or across an opening. The pitch is typically controlled by covering and uncovering holes along the instrument’s body, or by a system of keys. 

Despite the name, not all woodwind instruments are made of wood. In fact, many, like the saxophone and flute, are made of metal but still belong to the woodwind family due to the method of sound production.

Types of Woodwind Instruments

Clarinet

The clarinet is one of the most versatile woodwind instruments. It has a warm, rich tone that can express a wide range of emotions, from joyous to melancholic. The clarinet was first introduced in around 1690. Composed for by just about every composer who ever put pencil to paper, it’s certainly one of the most diverse and widely used woodwind instruments in use.

Whether it’s to learn a new instrument to work through your grades, join an orchestra, jazz band, or simply to have fun learning, the clarinet is a great allrounder. Originally made from wood, these days the majority of student models and even pro level models are made from ABS, a synthetic material which is more durable, reliable and less temperamental than its wooden heritage.

The clarinet is generally considered a good choice for beginners. The fingerings are relatively straightforward, and the instrument is forgiving when it comes to producing a sound. However, mastering the clarinet’s full range and dynamics requires a lot of practice and dedication.

Here at the Music Depot, we have a range of clarinets designed to suit the beginner, such as the Jupiter JCL700QS, and many more at a range of prices so that you can get the instrument that will work for you at a suitable cost.

Flute

The flute is a beautifully expressive instrument, known for its bright and clear tone. Unlike most woodwinds, the flute doesn’t use a reed. Instead, sound is produced by blowing air across the mouthpiece’s edge. Flutes have been a mainstay of the woodwind section for centuries, so it’s no surprise that they are one of our most popular woodwind instruments in store. 

The flute can be challenging for beginners, especially when it comes to producing a sound. Proper breath control and embouchure (the way a player’s lips interact with the mouthpiece) are crucial. However, once these basics are mastered, the flute offers a rewarding and wide-ranging repertoire.

We have a wide range of flutes from beginner to intermediate all to suit varying needs of the player. For younger players, we have the J Michael 4452 which whilst having the standard straight head joint, also comes with a curved head joint to make it easier for smaller learners to reach all keys as well as develop a good embouchure without over stretching. 

For the intermediate player, you can’t go wrong with a Trevor James flute, and the silver-plated TJ10XE-P is a perfect student model for being reliable and sturdy. 

Piccolo

The piccolo is a smaller, higher-pitched cousin of the flute. It’s known for its bright, piercing sound, which can cut through even the loudest orchestra. The piccolo is often used to add sparkle and brilliance to musical pieces, especially in classical and marching band music.

The piccolo can be more challenging than the flute due to its small size and high pitch, which require precise control of breath and embouchure. It’s often recommended that beginners start with the flute before moving on to the piccolo.

Saxophone

A relatively new addition to the woodwind family, having been developed by Adolphe Sax in 1846, the saxophone is a dynamic and versatile instrument, beloved in jazz, pop, and classical music, and the rich, full sound makes it a favourite among soloists and ensemble players alike. The saxophone is relatively easy to start with, especially for those who have prior experience with woodwind instruments. However, achieving a smooth tone and mastering the instrument’s expressiveness requires practice.

From the tiny soprillo saxophone right down to the contrabass and even subcontrabass saxophones, the saxophone has many different facets. The most common saxophones in use today, however, are the alto and tenor.

Alto Saxophones

This type of saxophone is most common for absolute beginners, due to its size and weight making it easier for smaller hands and less weight to have hanging around your neck. The mouthpiece is also smaller which, again, makes it easier for beginners to get started. 

Despite this, the alto is arguably the most recognizable sax sound, Gerry Rafferty’s 70’s classic ‘Baker Street’ opens with the now iconic alto sax sound of Raphael Ravenscroft (who also lived and worked in Exeter). 

Whether you’re a youngster starting out or an adult keen to learn a new instrument, an alto, such as the Trevor James – ‘The Horn’ alto saxophone is an ideal first candidate to consider. 

Tenor Saxophones

The bigger brother of the alto saxophone, the tenor is synonymous with jazz but equally at home on gutsy rock and roll and blues. A heavier and larger instrument than the alto, the tenor might not be the ideal first sax for a young beginner, but for an adult, they may find the tenor a great starting point. 

Rich and bold in its sound, the tenor is famously played by Clarence Clemons on Bruce Springsteen’s ‘Born to Run’, or you might be familiar with the sound from the sax break in Aretha Franklin’s iconic ‘R-E-S-P-E-C-T’, where King Curtis lets rip on the tenor. The tenor sax is a versatile instrument, and models such as the Jupiter JTS 500Q tenor saxophone are a great starting point.

Bassoon

The bassoon is the largest of the woodwinds typically found in orchestras, known for its deep, rich tone. It plays an essential role in classical music, often providing the bass line or adding depth to the woodwind section. The bassoon has a unique, slightly nasal sound that makes it stand out in any ensemble.

The bassoon is one of the more challenging woodwind instruments to learn. Its size and complex key system can be intimidating for beginners. However, for those up to the challenge, the bassoon offers a unique and rewarding playing experience.

Choosing the Right Instrument for You

When choosing a woodwind instrument, it’s essential to consider not only the sound and style of music you’re interested in but also the learning curve. At The Music Depot, our knowledgeable staff can help guide you to the instrument that best fits you. Whether you’re drawn to the soulful sound of the clarinet, the bright tone of the flute, or the dynamic expressiveness of the saxophone, there’s a woodwind instrument that’s perfect for you.

Taking up a woodwind instrument can be a deeply rewarding journey. Each instrument has its own challenges and rewards, and with practice, you’ll find yourself expressing your musical ideas with ease. Explore our woodwind collection and start your musical journey today!