They're instrumental in making players puff (5)

I believe the answer is:

oboes

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'they're instrumental' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for oboes that I've seen before include "Woodwind instruments" , "noted producers" , "Parts of orchestra" , "Wind instruments" , "Reed instruments" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app