1. Idiophones: These instruments produce sound through the vibration of the entire instrument, without the need for strings or membranes. Examples of idiophones include xylophones, marimbas, bells, chimes, and triangles.
2. Membranophones: These instruments produce sound through the vibration of a stretched membrane, such as a drumhead. Examples of membranophones include drums, timbales, bongos, and tambourines.
3. Chordophones: These instruments produce sound through the vibration of strings. Examples of chordophones include guitars, violins, cellos, harps, and pianos.
4. Aerophones: These instruments produce sound through the vibration of air inside the instrument. Examples of aerophones include trumpets, trombones, clarinets, saxophones, and flutes.
5. Electrophones: These instruments produce sound through the use of electronics, such as electric guitars, synthesizers, and electronic drums.
In addition to these five main categories, there are also several subcategories and hybrid instruments that combine elements from different categories.