Orchestral Instruments

Understanding the unique qualities of each instrument is essential for effective orchestration...

String Instruments

• Violin: Highest range, agile and expressive


• Viola: Rich, mellow tone, middle range


• Cello: Warm, singing quality, lower range


• Double Bass: Foundation of the orchestra, lowest range

Woodwind Instruments

• Flute: Light, agile, highest woodwind


• Oboe: Distinctive, reedy tone, good for melodies


• Clarinet: Versatile, wide range, clear tone


• Bassoon: Deep, resonant, lowest woodwind

Brass Instruments

• Trumpet: Bright, brilliant, high range


• French Horn: Warm, mellow, middle range


• Trombone: Powerful, flexible, lower range


• Tuba: Deep, resonant, lowest brass

Percussion Instruments

• Timpani: Tuned drums, provide rhythmic foundation


• Cymbals: Crash and ride, add brilliance


• Bass Drum: Low, powerful accents


• Snare Drum: Crisp, military sound

Transposition and Ranges

• Understanding written vs. sounding pitch


• Instrument ranges and comfortable registers