about usage of definite article

do we always have to use definite article ahead of musical instrument?

No. The definite article is used only to refer to a specific instrument, or to that category of instrument in a general sense.

     The flute is on the table. (A specific flute)
     The flute is a woodwind instrument. (General)

Otherwise, you can use an indefinite article, or no article at all.

     There is a flute on the table. (No particular flute, just a flute)
     The sound of flutes could be heard. (Some flutes or other)

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Originally Posted by yh kwon

do we always have to use definite article ahead of musical instrument?

Correction: Do we always have to use the definite article in front of (the name of) a musical instrument?

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[blatte]

Do I always have to use definite articles before musical instruments? For instance, playing (the) drums?

Thank you,

M.