Neighbors of flutists, in an orchestra

The answer to the crossword question “Neighbors of flutists, in an orchestra” is OBOISTS. Oboists are musicians who play the oboe, a woodwind instrument that is similar to a flute but has a double reed. In an orchestra, oboists sit next to the flutists in the woodwind section. They often play important solos and are essential to creating the rich, complex sound of the orchestra. So, if you’re ever at a symphony concert and hear a beautiful, haunting melody coming from the woodwinds, chances are it’s the oboists at work!