Snare drums with a smaller diameter have higher pitch and those that are longer have more shell resonance and power. This instrument regularly has a diameter of 14 inches. 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. The piccolo was also invented in D-flat which was used in many famous solos but is not heard of in the modern times. Later on, it was revised by Mollenhauer and this gave the piccolo a popular instrument throughout the 20th century. It is now played as an integral element of the orchestra. Metal vs. wood piccolos Metal piccolos are commonly used in and are suitable for parades or in open spaced areas. The neck is the tube that holds the mouthpiece through a layer of cork. The other end of the neck is attached to the body of the saxophone. Saxophones are expected to have a lacquer finish which means that it appears to be polished brass. Some are made in silver which gives it a sound that is brighter. Playing the sitar The instrument should be placed between the player s right knee and left foot with the left leg under the former. This position allows the player s hands to move freely without holding the sitar s weight. The thumb is positioned on the fretboard s top while the string is being plucked using a mizraab or pick. Maintenance Maintenance of the instrument is very important in preserving its integrity and quality of acoustic performance. Rinse the mouthpiece with a mouthpiece brush and lukewarm water every week and don t forget to bathe the instrument every month. Disassemble the slides and valves and scrub through the instrument using valve brushes and snake brushes with warm water and soap. Blowpipes today usually have a non-return valve so that the player does not need to cover the edge of the blowpipe with his or her tongue when inhaling. The bag is a reservoir which holds air and regulates airflow while pumping or breathing take place. This helps the player to uphold constant sound for a moment.