Definition

1. Noun:
   • A woodwind instrument with a pair of joined reeds that vibrate together: A "double-reed instrument" is a type of woodwind instrument whose sound is produced by two thin pieces of cane (the reeds) that are bound together and vibrate against each other when the player blows air between them.

Usage and Examples

• Noun:
  • The oboe and the bassoon are classic examples of a double-reed instrument.
  • Mastering a double-reed instrument requires precise control of breath and embouchure.
  • The unique, nasal sound of the double-reed instrument is central to many orchestral compositions.

Advanced Usage

• "To play a double-reed instrument": This phrase describes the action of performing on such an instrument.
  • She has dedicated years to learning how to play a double-reed instrument.

Variants and Related Words

• Double reed (n): The pair of joined reeds themselves, which form the mouthpiece of the instrument.
  • The musician carefully adjusted the double reed before the concert.
• Reed instrument (n): A broader category of woodwind instruments that produce sound via a vibrating reed. A double-reed instrument is a specific type within this category.

Synonyms

• Double reed (when referring to the instrument type in a musical context).
• Oboe / Bassoon / English horn / Contrabassoon (These are specific named examples of double-reed instruments, not direct synonyms for the general category).

Related Phrases and Terminology

• Double-reed family: Refers to the group of musical instruments that use a double reed.
  • The double-reed family adds a distinctive color to the woodwind section.
• Double-reed player: A musician who specializes in playing these instruments.
  • The orchestra is seeking an experienced double-reed player.

Noun

1. a woodwind that has a pair of joined reeds that vibrate together