Based on research, the oboe, clarinet, and flute are viewed as instruments that are on the feminine side. In contrast to that, it has been observed though not proven that boys prefer the sound of the bassoon, oboe, and English horn than of others . Some oboists have remarked that these stereotypical views of the oboe might pilot to inconsistency in instrumentation in the future. The part that creates the sound is the reed. It is made of cane that serves as a membrane to the mouthpiece opening. While the sax is being played, the reed is caught in between the mouthpiece and the saxophone player s lip. The ligature, a rubber-like fabric or band of metal, clamps the reed in place which keeps it from going into the mouthpiece. Mandolin styles There are six mandolin styles the Neapolitan bowlback, a-style flatback, f-style flatback, Maccaferi style flatback, solid body electric, and electro-acoustic mandolins. Basics of playing The very first step of playing the mandolin is to learn how to tune it because you cannot produce the right melody without proper tuning. Sitar The sitar is a stringed instrument that is played by plucking. It is dominant in Hindustani classical music and has been around starting from the Middle Ages. It uses sympathetic strings which is common in Indian musical instruments. It also has a gourd resonating cavity and an extensive hollow neck. Playing the snare drum The snare drum is played by striking using a drumstick or another kind of beater. The drummer may choose to strike the head, the rim, or the shell. If you strike the head, a cracking sound is produced because the bottom head is against which the snares vibrate. The snares could be controlled with a lever placed on the strainer so that the sound produced will only be like a tom-tom. One reed is sharper and one is a bit flat which creates the tremolo effect when vibrating together. Harmonica care Do not eat or drink while playing your harmonica and clean your mouth thoroughly before playing. Gently tap the harmonica every after playing to remove excess saliva and keep it in a box or case when not in use to avoid accumulation of dirt.