The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 12 letter word HARPSICHORDS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
H
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "instruments/instruments" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case instruments/instruments = harpsichords.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 HARPSICHORDS mean?
HARPSICHORDS noun- A musical instrument with a keyboard that produces sound through a mechanical process. When the performer presses a key, a corresponding plectrum plucks a tuned string. Harpsichord originated in late medieval Europe and is one of the most important instruments used to perform Baroque music.