Want to learn more about an instrument – or discover new ones?
Bagpipe
A wind instrument that is played by blowing air into a pipe leading to the windbag. Air squeezed from the bag into reed pipes. One pipe has finger holes that used to play the melody. The other pipes, called drones, are used to continuously sound one tome each.*Usually considered a traditional instrument of Scotland.
Pronunciation:
Example:
Balofon
A gourd-resonated xylophone, originally from West Africa.*Usually considered a traditional instrument of Africa.
Pronunciation:
Example:
Banjo
A stringed instrument in the guitar family with a long neck, five strings and a round body like a tambourine with an open back. A banjo's strings are strummed or plucked with the fingers.*Usually considered a traditional instrument of Africa.
Pronunciation:
Example:
Bass Drum
The largest drum. It stands upright and is hit on the side. It is used in both orchestras and marching bands.Pronunciation:
Example:
Bassoon
This long, narrow woodwind instrument has a double reed. Its wooden tube is doubled back on itself to reduce its height and ends with a bell that points up. Bassoons play the low notes in the woodwind family.Pronunciation:
Example:
Bells
A collection of bells that are worn, often around the ankle of a traditional dancer*Usually considered a traditional instrument of North America.
Pronunciation:
Example:
Biwa
A Japanese short-necked lute, often used in narrative storytelling.*Usually considered a traditional instrument of Japan.
Pronunciation:
Bodhran
An Irish drum whose construction includes two perpendicular pieces of wood at the back used to hold the instrument. It is most commonly played with a stick that has a knob at one or both ends.*Usually considered a traditional instrument of Ireland.
