Definition

1. Noun:
   • The section of a band or orchestra that plays reed instruments: This refers to the specific group of musicians within a larger ensemble, such as a concert band, jazz band, or orchestra, whose primary instruments are reed instruments. These instruments produce sound by vibrating a single reed (like a clarinet or saxophone) or a double reed (like an oboe or bassoon).

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The reed section provided a warm, lyrical melody in the second movement.
  • In a big band, the reed section typically includes saxophones and sometimes clarinets.
  • The conductor asked the reed section to play with a softer dynamic.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used to discuss the balance and texture of a musical arrangement.
  • The piece features a beautiful dialogue between the reed section and the brass.
• It can be used metonymically to refer to the collective sound of these instruments.
  • The lush sound of the reed section filled the concert hall.

Variants and Related Words

• Reeds (n, informal): A common shorthand for the reed section or reed instruments.
  • The reeds need to tune to the oboe.
• Woodwind section (n): A broader term that includes the reed section (e.g., clarinets, oboes, bassoons, saxophones) as well as flutes, which are not reed instruments. The terms are not always interchangeable.
  • The woodwind section includes both flutes and the reed section.

Synonyms

• Woodwinds (in many band contexts, though technically a broader category)
• Reed players (refers more to the musicians than the section as a unit)

Related Phrases

• To double (v): In musical contexts, when a player in the reed section switches between different reed instruments within a single piece.
  • The clarinetist in the reed section had to double on alto saxophone for this number.

Noun

1. the section of a band or orchestra that plays reed instruments