Best
Student
Clarinet
REV-CL200
Student
Bb Clarinet Primes students for Success
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Overall: Bb clarinet with ABS body.
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Best Feature: Blue steel needle springs.
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TedScore™: 8/10
Best
Violin
Concertos
Master VL906
Professional
Violin Violin for Master Players
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Overall: Handcrafted maple and spruce body.
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Best Feature: Spirit varnish with antiqued aspect.
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TedScore™: 10/10
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Affordable Snare Drum
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Overall: Chrome-plated aluminum shell.
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Best Feature: Featuring a smooth shell and elegant-looking Imperial lugs
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TedScore™: 8/10
My adventure in the symphony orchestra started with one string pluck and grew into a love for the beautiful music made by these instruments.
In this cheerful stroll through the orchestra, I’ll be your guide to our Orchestra Instruments List With Pictures—a colorful gallery where each instrument pops from the page and tells its own story.
From the violin’s delicate serenade to the trumpet’s bold fanfare, every instrument adds its voice to the symphony’s spellbinding narrative.
Let me guide you on a whimsical tour through each section. Trust me, every scroll will pluck at your curiosity!
Strings Section
ONE
The strings section is the heart of an orchestra’s lush soundscape.
Here, you’ll find various string instruments played with a bow or plucked with the fingers, producing everything from the highest delicate notes to the deepest rich tones.
Violins
The violin, the Soprano voice of the string family, is the smallest and has the highest pitch in this melodious squad.
My fellow violinists and I play in unison or harmony, orchestrating a variety of notes that float atop the orchestra’s harmony.
We employ a bow to glide over the strings, or sometimes we get peppy and pluck them with a technique called pizzicato.
Eastman Master VL906 Professional Violin
FEATURES: Handcrafted maple and spruce body.
OTHER INFO: Spirit varnish with antiqued aspect.
- Discrete output disguised as the end button for improved ergonomics.
- Availability and access may be limited in certain regions.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Viola
The viola is slightly larger than the violin and has a richer sound. It fills the middle range of the string section, bridging the high notes of the violins with the lower tones of the cellos and double basses.
Violas, which usually have a body length of 15 to 18 inches, has a warm and mellow timbre that makes them perfect for adding depth and harmony.
Despite its critical role, the viola often plays supporting harmonies rather than the main melody. This doesn’t diminish its importance, as it’s essential for creating a balanced orchestral sound.
Yamaha AVA5-160S 16-inch Student Viola Outfit
FEATURES: 16-inch viola with cloth-covered case, Brazilwood bow, and rosin
OTHER INFO: Hand-applied oil varnish finish
- Professionally adjusted and set up with high-quality Prelude strings
- Expensive!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Cellos
There’s the cello, the tenor of the group. When I sit to play, I balance it between my knees and coo like a baritone singer, reveling in its deep, soulful voice written in the bass clef.
Knilling 126F Anton Eminescu Master Model Cello
FEATURES: Crafted from aged Carpathian spruce and maple for superior tone.
OTHER INFO: Equipped with D'Addario Zyex synthetic-core strings.
- Hand-applied oil varnish finish.
- Reliable construction.
- Individual preferences for sound and playability may vary.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Double Bass
Lastly there is the Double Bass. This is the big Daddy (or Mommy!) of the string section. It’s low, deep and sounds utterly wonderful.
Archer Size Professional Double Bass
COMES WITH: Bow & Hard Case
FEATURES: Canadian Spruce & Maple
Archer Size Professional Double Bass
- Plucked tone is warm and well balanced
- None
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Harp
The harp is a unique string instrument with a lovely, heavenly sound. It has a triangular shape and many strings that players pluck with their fingers. The strings have different colors to help harpists find notes fast.
Harps bring a magical feel to orchestral music, often used for special effects like gliding between notes. It sits at the side of the string section, and its unique sound blends nicely with the other string instruments.
Salvi-Daphne 47 SE
FEATURES: Available in mahogany, walnut, and natural finishes, with customizable soundboards
OTHER INFO: Made with high quality materials
- Key changes are easier than on lever harps
- Padded covers are not included in the price
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Woodwind Section
two
The Woodwind Section of an orchestra weaves a tapestry of sound with instruments that range from the highest soaring flutes to the profound depths of the clarinet. Each woodwind instrument uses airflow to create its unique tones and timbres.
Flutes
I love the sound of flutes. With their pure and piercing high notes, they sing the melody like a lark at dawn. These sleek instruments are usually made of metal, and the players blow across a hole to generate their music.
Azumi AZ2SRBEO Concert Flute
FEATURES: Carefully crafted step-up flute with a silver-plated body.
OTHER INFO: Sterling silver Altus Z-Cut professional head joint.
- Comfortable offset G key system with split E mechanism.
- Higher price point.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
English Horns
Now, step in the English horn, or as some call it, the cor anglais.
Thanks to its pear-shaped bell, it’s a double-reed instrument with a mellow sound that can evoke a sense of longing or action at a boot.
Fox Model 400 Professional Oboe
FEATURES: Made with Grenadilla wood body.
OTHER INFO: Full conservatory key system with silver-plated keys.
- Includes a professional-quality case, grenadilla tenon caps, reed case, care cloth, silk swab, and cork grease.
- Higher price point compared to student or intermediate-level oboes.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Clarinets
Clarinetists are the alchemists of the woodwind family, transforming breath into a warm, woody sound.
The most common type is the B♭ clarinet, a real jack-of-all-trades that can dance between the full orchestral range.
Revelle REV-CL200 Student Bb Clarinet
FEATURES: Bb clarinet with ABS body.
OTHER INFO: Blue steel needle springs.
- Included mouthpiece kit and case.
- Potential limitations in tonal depth and richness.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Oboe
The oboe is known for its unique, piercing sound. Its double-reed mouthpiece is tricky to play. Made of hardwood, the oboe is slim and tapered.
The oboe often plays the main melody in orchestras, especially in slow, emotional parts. Its unique tone makes it stand out, so it’s crucial for both harmony and melody. The oboe’s expressive sound makes it perfect for solos.
Jupiter JOB1000 Student Oboe Modified Conservatory System
FEATURES: ABS resin body provides enhanced durability and a wood-like sound
OTHER INFO: Silver-plated keys are fluid and responsive
- Includes a lightweight ABS molded carrying case
- Modified conservatory system limiting in terms of key work customization and flexibility
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Bassoon
The bassoon is the biggest and lowest of the usual orchestral woodwinds. Like the oboe, it has a double reed but makes a more profound, reedier sound. Usually made of maple, the bassoon has a long, bent shape.
The bassoon adds a deep, woody sound to the lower part of the orchestra. It often plays bass parts but can also do funny, lively bits and profound, sad tones. This flexibility makes the bassoon important for a full, rich orchestral sound.
Fox Renard Model 222 Student Bassoon
FEATURES: Full German key system with silver-plated keys
OTHER INFO: German bell with an attractive synthetic-ivory ring
- Comes with a premium case with shoulder and backpack straps
- Higher compared to some entry-level student models
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Brass Section
THREE
In an orchestra, the brass family produces some seriously majestic sounds that can capture the essence of everything from a battle charge to a sweet serenade.
Using a fascinating mix of air and metal, these instruments come alive in the hands of skilled musicians.
Trumpets
I find trumpets to be the natural show-offs of the brass family, usually playing the highest notes with a brightness that can pierce through any ensemble.
Their valves, operated by the musician’s fingers, allow them to play a wide range of pitches.
Yamaha YTR2330 Student Trumpet
FEATURES: Designed by The Most Famous Manufacturer
OTHER INFO: Premium price range
- Produces a vibrant, consistent tone
- A yellow brass crafted bell made by the world renown Yamaha company
- Possibly too pricey for the average beginning trumpet player valves
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
French Horn
The French Horn has a distinct, circular shape and a rich, warm sound. It uses three or four valves to control pitch and can play high and low notes accurately.
The French horn’s bell is often placed on the player’s thigh, which helps project its sound. It has a range of over four octaves and is known for its versatility.
It’s used in various musical settings, from classical to film scores, adding depth and complexity to the music.
Yamaha YHR-314 II F-French Horn
- Tapered gold brass lead pipe.
- A clear lacquer finish brings a delicate warmth.
- The tapered valves provide long-wearing performance without air leakage.
- Relatively expensive compared to other beginner or intermediate models.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Trombones and Tubas
Trombones use a slide to change notes, adding a distinctive character to the brass section. They’re fun to watch as the slide extends and retracts while the players are blowing air.
S.E. Shires Q30YA Q Series Professional Tenor Trombone
FEATURES: Handcrafted tenor trombone made with an outstanding dedication to detail.
OTHER INFO: Wide nickel silver slide crook.
- Three interchangeable yellow brass lead pipes allow the player to customize the trombone’s response.
- May require more maintenance and care to preserve its optimal performance.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Now, to discuss the tuba: this gentle giant produces sound with the lowest notes and gives a solid foundation to the brass choir— it’s the backbone of the section.
Its large size and wide conical bore are responsible for that warm and rich sound.
C.G. Conn 5JW BB Tuba
FEATURES: 18-inch yellow brass bell projects with authority.
OTHER INFO: American-style bell flare offers cloud-like projection.
- Includes C.G. Conn 2 mouthpiece and a wheeled case.
- Tonal characteristics may vary based on personal preferences.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Percussion Section
FOUR
Within an orchestra, my attention often turns to the percussion section, a dynamic group responsible for rhythm and color.
You’ll find instruments ranging from the timpani’s deep boom.
Piano
The piano is versatile with a wide range and dynamic capacity. Its ability to play multiple notes simultaneously makes it valuable for both melody and harmony.
Kawai CA99 Digital Piano
FEATURES: The speaker diffuser panels create a 360 listening experience
OTHER INFO: The New Grand Feel III keyboard delivers a grand piano touch
- Comes with world-class audio components from Onkyo
- Allows you to personalise your tone with the 5'' touchscreen
- A great-looking keyboard
- Compared to Yamaha, the samples on this digital piano are relatively limited
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Timpani and Drums
The timpani, or kettle drums, are the heartthrob of orchestral percussion family, producing a sound with a definite pitch that’s pivotal for dramatic flourishes.
Yamaha TP-7332R Semi-professional Timpani
FEATURES: Semi-pro timpano with 32-inch diameter.
OTHER INFO: Hammered copper bowl with increased bowl strength.
- Easy to move with 2 main locking casters.
- Higher price point.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Meanwhile, the snare drum adds that crisp, marching rhythm, and the bass drum deeply grounds the orchestra.
Ludwig Supraphonic LM402 Snare Drum
FEATURES: Chrome-plated aluminum shell.
OTHER INFO: Featuring a smooth shell and elegant-looking Imperial lugs
- Timeless design and construction.
- Some users may find that it produces more overtones than desired.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Orchestra Instruments List With Pictures:
Final Recap
I love orchestral music like discovering a giant, rich artwork with threads of different colors and textures.
There’s something quite magical in how woodwind, brass, percussion, and strings converge to create harmonious dialogues.
These instruments, each with rich histories and roles, form an impressive gallery of sonic artistry.
This quick tour through the orchestra’s sections and instruments is just the tip of the iceberg. The details and nuances of these musical treasures offer a wealth of knowledge and enjoyment.
So, if you’ve felt the urge to pick up an instrument yourself, I can’t be happier.
Remember, Mozart and Beethoven started somewhere, too, and who knows what tunes are waiting to leap from your fingertips?
Before you go…
Check out this comprehensive review of the Best Metronome Apps to help you find the most suitable option for your musical needs.
ah, the trumpet, my lifelong companion. from the days of marching bands to the quiet, introspective sessions in jazz clubs, this instrument has been with me through it all. reading about the brass section here took me back, made me smile thinking about all those moments. Robert, you’ve done a splendid job capturing the essence of what it means to be a part of the brass family. it’s not just about being loud, it’s about being expressive, finding that perfect pitch and tone that speaks to the soul. for anyone young reading this, considering picking up the trumpet or any brass instrument, do it. it’s a journey well worth it.
on the timpani and drums, feel like there’s more to say about technique. good start though.
I found the clarinets section fascinating! I play in my school’s band and am always looking to improve. Does anyone have tips on transitioning from classical to jazz pieces more smoothly? Robert Emery, thanks for including clarinets in your article!
really loved the section on violas, not many articles give us the spotlight. Nice to see some recognition for the deeper string sounds. Robert Emery did a great job highlighting the unique qualities of the viola!
haha, all fun and games till the double bass walks in. we’re the real deep sound here.
Violas getting spotlight? Wait till you hear a cello solo, then we’ll talk about deep strings.