Pitched instruments are typically classified according to the way in which they produce sound. The main categories of pitched instruments are:
* String instruments produce sound when a string is plucked, bowed, or struck. Examples of string instruments include the violin, guitar, and piano.
* Wind instruments produce sound when air is blown across an opening. Examples of wind instruments include the flute, clarinet, and trumpet.
* Brass instruments are similar to wind instruments, but they use a cup-shaped mouthpiece to produce sound. Examples of brass instruments include the trombone, trumpet, and tuba.
* Keyboard instruments produce sound when a key is pressed. Examples of keyboard instruments include the piano, organ, and synthesizer.
* Electronic instruments produce sound using electronic circuits. Examples of electronic instruments include the electric guitar, synthesizer, and theremin.
Pitched instruments are used in a wide variety of musical genres, from classical music to rock and roll. They are essential for creating the melodies, harmonies, and countermelodies that make music so enjoyable.