Woodwind instruments are a family of musical instruments that produce sound when air is blown through them. They are typically made of wood or metal and include instruments like the flute, clarinet, saxophone, and oboe. The sound is created by the vibration of air within the instrument, which can be altered by opening or closing holes along the body. These instruments can be categorized into two main types: single-reed and double-reed instruments. Single-reed instruments, like the clarinet and saxophone, use a single piece of cane to create sound, while double-reed instruments, such as the oboe and bassoon, use two pieces of cane that vibrate against each other. Woodwind instruments are commonly used in orchestras, bands, and various musical genres.