| STRINGS | Cords on instruments or conditions (7) |
| HAMMOCK | A sling-like bed slung by cords on a ship or between two trees (7) |
| OPTIMAL | Best under circumstances or conditions (7) |
| SECTION | A subdivision of an orchestra or chorus comprising similar instruments or voices (7) |
| TREMOLO | What is a tremulous effect produced on musical instruments or in singing? (7) |
| QUINTET | Musical composition for five instruments or voices (7) |
| LASTING | Continuing or enduring without marked change in status or condition or place. (7) |
| SECRECY | Word for concealment; the keeping of arcana or clandestine matters; or, condition of being hidden/private (7) |
| TENSION | Strained state or condition (7) |
| INVERTS | Reverses the position, order, relation, or condition of. (7) |
| LIMINAL | Relating to a transitional state, phase or condition |
| DISEASE | Infection or condition compromising wellbeing |
| CHRONIC | persistent, as in an ailment or condition |
| RETAINS | Keeps in fixed state or condition / keeps in mind / continues to practice |
| LINES | Series of five horizontal strokes forming a musical stave; queues; actor or actress's words; or, cords on which to hang one's laundry (5) |
| ENVIRONMENT | The surroundings or conditions in which a person, animal, or plant lives or operates |
| BLIND | Drive very fast, relying on instruments |
| SHAWMS | Fabian's writing on instruments of the past (6) |
| UKES | Picked-on instruments, briefly |
| OCARINAS | Air-con, as represented on instruments (8) |
