Relative of a heckelphone

Crossword Clue: Relative of a Heckelphone

This week’s crossword clue has me scratching my head (and maybe my chin, too). It’s one of those clues that seems deceptively simple at first glance, but the more you ponder it, the more elusive the answer becomes.

The clue itself is a simple phrase:

“Relative of a Heckelphone.”

Now, for those of you who aren’t musically inclined, a heckelphone is a rather unusual instrument. It’s a double-reed woodwind, known for its deep, rich tone and its role in orchestral and chamber music. So, what could possibly be related to it?

The word “relative” can be a bit tricky here. It could refer to a musical instrument that’s part of the same family as the heckelphone, sharing similar characteristics like construction or sound. Or, it could be a more distant relation, perhaps something that shares a common ancestor or just a certain resemblance.

This ambiguity is what makes the clue so intriguing. Do we need to know the intricate details of woodwind instruments, or can we rely on our general musical knowledge? Is the answer a common instrument we’ve heard countless times, or something more obscure, known only to those with a deep passion for the world of music?

Whatever the answer may be, I’m sure it will require some thought and perhaps even a bit of research. But that’s the beauty of crossword puzzles, isn’t it? The challenge, the discovery, the satisfaction of finally cracking the code. So, let’s dive in and see what musical gems this clue has to offer!

Available Answers:

OBOE.

Last seen on the crossword puzzle: NY Times Crossword 7 Sep 24, Saturday