about usage of definite article

[Anonymous]

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

 

[gwendolinest]

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)

Fade-col

 

[gwendolinest]

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?

Fade-col

 

[blatte]

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

Thank you,

M.