Which instrument is referred to as "pauken" in German?

The term "pauken" in German refers specifically to timpani, which are large kettle drums often used in orchestral music. The name originates from the German word for kettledrums, highlighting their distinctive bowl-like shape and the way they are played with mallets. Timpani produce a resonant sound that can be tuned to specific pitches, allowing them to interact melodically within an ensemble as well as maintaining their role as percussion instruments.

In contrast, the other options refer to distinct instruments: the piano is a keyboard instrument, the cello is a string instrument, and the horn is a brass instrument. Each of these instruments has its unique characteristics and nomenclature in German, which do not relate to the term "pauken." Thus, "pauken" is accurately associated with the timpani, confirming this choice as correct.