Final answer:
The frequency of reed oscillation in a reeded instrument is primarily determined by the length of the instrument, the size of the mouthpiece, and the pressure applied to the reed. The type of wood can also influence the resonance and quality of the sound.
Step-by-step explanation:
The basic aspects that determine the frequency of reed oscillation in a reeded instrument are:
- Length of the instrument: The frequency of the note can be changed by altering the length of the resonating air column within the instrument. For example, on instruments like the flute or oboe, players adjust the effective length of the tube by opening or closing finger holes, thus altering the pitch.
- Size of the mouthpiece: While not as significant as the length, the size and shape of the mouthpiece can affect the sound produced, influencing the overtone structures.
- Type of wood used: This impacts the timbre rather than the frequency directly but can affect the overall resonance and quality of sound produced.
- Pressure applied to the reed: The force with which the player blows through the reed or interacts with it can influence the reed's vibration frequency, thus affecting the pitch.
Understanding these aspects helps players control the sound of reeded instruments, creating beautiful music with the desired qualities.