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Percussion instruments are a broad category of musical instruments that are sounded by striking, shaking, or scraping. This category encompasses a vast array of instruments, differing in material, construction, and the specific method of sound production. At their core, percussion instruments produce sound through vibration. This vibration is typically initiated by a percussive action.

The percussion family can be broadly divided into two main groups: pitched and unpitched. Pitched percussion instruments are capable of producing musical notes with a discernible pitch, such as the xylophone, marimba, timpani, and glockenspiel. These instruments are often used to play melodies and harmonies within an ensemble. Unpitched percussion instruments, on the other hand, produce sounds of indefinite pitch. This group includes instruments like the snare drum, bass drum, cymbals, triangle, and tambourine. They are primarily used for rhythmic support, accentuation, and adding textural elements to music.

Percussion instruments are found in virtually every musical tradition worldwide and play a crucial role in a multitude of musical genres, from classical orchestras and marching bands to jazz ensembles, rock bands, and traditional folk music. Their versatility allows them to provide the rhythmic foundation, add percussive color, and even carry melodic lines. The construction materials vary widely, including wood, metal, plastic, and animal hides, contributing to the diverse timbres and sonic possibilities within the percussion family.