A *xylophone* is a percussion instrument that consists of a series of wooden bars of graduated lengths, struck with mallets to produce musical tones. The bars are usually made of rosewood, but other woods such as maple, birch, and cherry are also used. Xylophones are often used in orchestras, percussion ensembles, and marching bands, and they are also popular as solo instruments.
The history of the xylophone can be traced back to ancient times. Similar instruments were used in Africa and Asia thousands of years ago, and they were eventually brought to Europe by explorers and traders. The xylophone as we know it today was developed in the 19th century, and it quickly became a popular instrument in classical music and popular music alike.