Introduction to Wind Instruments

💭 Think About...

1. What are some wind instruments you've seen or heard before? Where did you encounter them?
2. How would you describe the sounds made by different wind instruments? What words would you use?
3. Have you ever tried to make a sound by blowing across the top of a bottle? What happened?
4. Do you think the size or shape of an instrument affects the sound it makes? Why or why not?
5. If you could invent a new wind instrument, what would it look like? What kind of sound would it make?

🔨 Your Project

  1. Gather your materials: 8 plastic straws, scissors, tape, and a ruler.
  2. Line up the 8 straws evenly and measure the following lengths with your ruler, starting from one end of each straw: 20 cm, 18 cm, 16 cm, 14 cm, 12 cm, 10 cm, 8 cm, 6 cm.
  3. Carefully cut each straw at its measured mark using scissors. Make sure to cut straight across. Ask an adult for help if needed.
  4. Arrange the cut straws in order from longest (20 cm) to shortest (6 cm). Make sure the tops and bottoms of the straws line up evenly.
  5. Stick a piece of tape across the straws near the top, then add another piece of tape near the bottom. Press the tape down firmly so the straws are securely attached to each other.
  6. Your pan flute is ready! Gently blow across the top of each straw to produce sound. Aim the air about halfway into the opening of the straw, not straight down into it.
  7. Experiment with blowing angle and speed to get a clear sound from each straw. You may need to practice a few times.
  8. Try playing a simple tune by blowing across the different straws one at a time. Which straws make the highest notes? The lowest?
  9. If any straws come loose or you want to rearrange them, just peel off the tape, reposition the straws, and tape them again.
  10. Once you've explored your pan flute, set it aside and get ready to share your observations with the class.