Topmusicanswers
What are the characteristics of woodwind instruments?
The Woodwind Family. The instruments in this family all used to be made of wood, which gives them their name. Today, they are made of wood, metal, plastic or some combination. They are all basically narrow cylinders or pipes, with holes, an opening at the bottom end and a mouthpiece at the top.
Where do the woodwinds sit in an orchestra?
The woodwind family sits together in the middle of the orchestra, behind the violins and violas. The name “woodwind” originated because the instruments were once made of wood and are played using wind (by blowing).
