Clarinet

Clarinet, single-reed woodwind instrument comprising a cylindrical tube (usually wooden) with a flared bell and tapered mouthpiece, played vertically. Tones are produced by opening and closing holes (some covered by keys) in the tube while blowing air through the mouthpiece. The clarinet, developed in Germany from the chalumeau by Johann Christoph Denner early in the 18th century, features in dance bands, military bands, woodwind groups, symphony orchestras, and as a solo instrument.