Marching band flutes, also known as fifes, are a type of woodwind instrument that is commonly used in marching bands. They are small, high-pitched instruments that produce a shrill sound. Fifes are typically made of wood or plastic and have six finger holes and one thumb hole. They are usually played with a single-reed mouthpiece, similar to a clarinet. The sound of fifes is often used to lead marching bands and to provide a unique sound to the music.