The main classification system of musical instruments.
Overview
Musical Instrument Classifications
Musical instrument classification is a systematic categorization of instruments based on sound production principles and playing methods. Generally, instruments are divided into five main categories: string, wind, percussion, keyboard, and electronic instruments. These classifications are widely used as fundamental frameworks in orchestra arrangements and music education, with academic classification systems such as the Hornbostel-Sachs system also existing.
musical instruments
music
classification
string instruments
wind instruments
percussion instruments
keyboard instruments
electronic instruments
| code | slug | name | description | examples | soundProduction |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | string-instruments | String Instruments | Instruments that produce sound through vibrating strings. | ["Violin","Viola","Cello","Double Bass","Harp","Guitar","Ukulele","Sitar"] | String vibration |
| 2 | wind-instruments | Wind Instruments | Instruments that produce sound through vibrating air. | ["Flute","Clarinet","Saxophone","Oboe","Trumpet","Trombone","French Horn","Tuba"] | Air column vibration |
| 3 | percussion-instruments | Percussion Instruments | Instruments that produce sound by striking, shaking, or scraping. | ["Drum Kit","Timpani","Xylophone","Marimba","Cymbals","Tambourine","Bongos","Cajon"] | Striking / Vibration |
| 4 | keyboard-instruments | Keyboard Instruments | Instruments that produce sound by operating keys. | ["Piano","Organ","Harpsichord","Synthesizer","Electric Piano","Harmonium"] | Key-operated sound production |
| 5 | electronic-instruments | Electronic Instruments | Instruments that create sound through electronic circuits or digital processing. | ["Synthesizer","Drum Machine","Digital Piano","Sampler","Turntable","Electronic Drum"] | Electronic circuits / Digital processing |