JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser.

Woodwind Instruments

Shop woodwind instruments here at West Music!

West Music carries a fine collection of expertly crafted woodwind instruments from trusted manufacturers like Yamaha, Pearl and P Mauriat. Browse our selection to find the perfect saxophone, clarinet, flute or piccolo that any music educator would approve of and any beginner would love. Our selection of saxophones is available in a variety of finishes and key plate styles for the look that you prefer! So whether it's time for an upgrade or it's your first step into the woodwind family, explore West Music's excellent collection.

*If you cannot view the products in this category, please click here

Your network security may be blocking the products from loading (to confirm, try opening this page on your phone's cellular network).

Please try the following options to proceed with your order:

Call us M-F 9am - 5pm CST to place your order over the phone at 1-800-397-9378.
Shop via a different network connection (i.e. on your phone or with a different Wi-Fi network).
Contact your IT team to ask them to whitelist our site.
You can also access our digital catalog here to find and add items to your cart (product pages will load normally).
- Use the search at the top of the Catalog screen to find a product
- Click a link to navigate the product page
- And add it to your cart!
You can also navigate directly to product pages by adding a 6-digit item number( i.e. "123456") to the end of our URL (i.e. westmusic.com/123456).

If you cannot view the products in this category, PLEASE CLICK HERE

Your network or browser security settings may be blocking the products from loading (to confirm, try opening this page on your phone's cellular network).

Please try the following options to proceed with your order:

1. To place your order over the phone, call us Monday-Friday, 9am - 5pm CST at 1-800-397-9378.

2. Shop via a different browser or network connection (i.e. on your phone or with a different Wi-Fi network).

3. Contact your IT team to ask them to whitelist js.klevu.com.

4. You can also click here to access our digital catalog. Use the search at the top of the Catalog screen to find a product, click a link to navigate the product detail page (product pages will load normally), and add it to your cart. You can also navigate directly to product pages by adding a 6-digit item number (i.e. "400278") to the end of our URL (i.e. Westmusic.com/400278).

Overview of Woodwind Instruments

Woodwind instruments are known for their versatile and expressive tones, playing an essential role in orchestras, bands, and solo performances. From reed instruments like the soulful saxophone and clarinet to the vibrant flutes and piccolos, woodwind instruments offer a range of sounds that are as diverse as they are captivating.

Reed Instruments: Saxophones and Clarinets

Reed instruments, such as the saxophone and clarinet, use a thin reed attached to a mouthpiece to produce sound. The reed's vibration as air is blown across creates the instrument’s distinctive tone. Mastery of reed instruments requires breath control and a delicate balance in reed strength and mouthpiece design.

The Saxophone

With its distinctive rich and mellow tone, the saxophone is a staple in jazz music but is also found in classical, rock, and other musical genres. Available in various sizes, from the high-pitched soprano to the deep baritone, the saxophone is a reed instrument that combines the power of brass with the nuanced articulation of woodwinds.

The Clarinet and Bass Clarinet

Clarinets are known for their wide range of notes and the ability to play fast, intricate melodies. The clarinet's warm sound makes it a favorite in orchestral and solo settings. With its deeper tone, the bass clarinet adds a rich, lower register to woodwind sections.

The Flute

Flutes differ from reed instruments in that they are played by blowing directly onto the mouthpiece. Flutes are one of the oldest woodwind instruments, producing a bright, clear sound ranging from powerful to tender. Modern flutes, typically made of metal, are critical players in orchestras and ensembles, known for their agility and lyrical qualities.

The Piccolo

The piccolo, a smaller cousin of the flute, stands out for its high-pitched, piercing tone. Often used to add brightness and sparkle to orchestral compositions, the piccolo requires skillful playing due to its high register and delicate sound.

The Role of Woodwind Instruments

Woodwind instruments, encompassing saxophones, clarinets, flutes, reed instruments, and piccolos, offer melodic and harmonic possibilities. Each instrument brings a unique character to an ensemble, from the smooth and soulful saxophone to the agile and bright flute. In orchestras, bands, and as solo instruments, woodwinds continue to enchant with their diverse tones and expressive capabilities, weaving the melodic tapestry of music across genres and styles.