The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word SISTRA
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
S
I
S
T
R
A
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "instruments" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case instruments = sistra.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does SISTRA mean?
SISTRA noun- An ancient Egyptian musical instrument, to be shaken, consisting of a metal frame holding percussive metal beads.