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Home » Tutorial » Instruments In An Orchestra List: Your Ultimate Guide to Orchestral Music

Instruments In An Orchestra List: Your Ultimate Guide To Orchestral Music

Last updated November 12, 2024

Instruments In An Orchestra List: Your Ultimate Guide to Orchestral Music

  • Proudly written by Pro-Violinist,
  • Elinor Jane Moran
  • 4 Comments
  • Music Theory

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Are you curious about the instruments that create beautiful music in an orchestra?

I’ve always been amazed by the different sounds in classical music, and today, I’ll take you on an exciting journey through the instruments in an orchestra list.

London Philharmonic Orchestra Conductor Robert Emery

Let’s take a look at the symphony orchestra and meet the string, brass, and woodwind sections.

Each instrument has a unique role, creating a tapestry of melodies and harmonies that can transport you to another world.

Keep reading, and I’ll guide you through this enchanting orchestra lineup.

Trust me, by the end of this article, you’ll have a new appreciation for these musical wonders and be the most clued-up concertgoer in the audience.

Table of Contents

Strings Section

ONE

String Section Of An Orchestra

The string family is truly the backbone of a classical orchestra.

I love how each string instrument contributes its unique sound, from the high-pitched melodies of violins to the deep tones of double basses.

1

Violins and Violas

Violins are often considered the stars of the string family.

They are the soprano voices, usually leading with their bright, expressive notes, which they achieve through the tension of their strings and the skilled use of a bow.

They rest comfortably under my chin, allowing me to play intricate melodies with finesse.

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Likewise, violas offer a slightly lower pitch and a rich alto voice, complementing violins beautifully. Their strings are thicker, and their bodies are larger.

They nestle between my shoulder and chin as I draw the bow across their strings to create warm, velvety sounds that add depth to the harmony.

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2

Cellos and Double Basses

Cellos, the tenors of the string family, have a resonant and lush tone. I sit down to play them, balancing the cello between my knees, feeling the vibrations through the instrument as my bow dances across the strings.

Their versatility is stunning—from mournful, soulful passages to quick, sprightly sections.

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Now, let’s talk about double basses. These giants are the bass voices in the orchestra, providing a foundational rumble. I often pluck their thick strings in a pizzicato technique or use a bow for sustained notes.

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3

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.

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Woodwind Wonders

Two

Woodwind Instruments Of An Orchestra

I find the woodwind section weaves enchanting melodies that genuinely delight the ear.

With each breath, these artists transform air into art, and it’s my joy to introduce you to the instruments that make up this magical ensemble.

1

Bassoons

The bassoon is the bass voice of the woodwind family. It uses a double reed and produces a deep, reedy tone. Often made of maple wood, it provides depth and warmth to the orchestra’s sound palette.

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2

Flutes

I often marvel at the silvery sound of the flute, a staple in the wind section known for its versatile range and capability to flirt with the highest melodies.

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The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
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3

Oboes

The oboe, with its distinct, plaintive sound, is a double-reed instrument and a true chameleon, whether conjuring the warmth of the woods or the cry of the ocean.

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The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
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™.
4

Clarinets and Saxophones

Meet the clarinet, the chameleon of the orchestra with its remarkable range from dusky depths to sparkling highs, indeed an instrument for all moods.

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The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
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However, the saxophone is more commonly found jazzing up bands than in classic orchestral settings, with the bass clarinet often taking its seat, providing rich, woodsy overtones.

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Brilliant Brass

Three

Brass Instruments For An Orchestra

The brass section truly shines with its powerful dynamics and tonal grandeur.

1

Trumpets and French Horns

My symphonic adventures would be complete with the trumpet, the highest-pitched brass instrument in the orchestra.

It commands a bold, piercing sound, perfect for heroic fanfare and intricate melodies.

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They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.

The TedScore™: 9/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
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™.

In contrast, the French horn is known for its mellow, rich tones that weave through the orchestra like golden threads.

I adore its unique shape and how horn players use their hands inside the bell to fine-tune the pitch.

Hans Hoyer 6801 Double French Horn

Hans Hoyer 6801 Double French Horn
Perfect For: Students
FEATURES:
- Intermediate-level F/Bb French horn for top-level chamber, solo, and orchestral applications.
- High-quality nickel-silver valve section and tuning slides.

Check Price >
9/10
PROS
  • The adjustable finger hook added playing comfort.
CONS
  • Relatively expensive.
What Retailer to Buy From?

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 TedScore™: 9/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
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™.
2

Trombone

When it comes to the trombone, it’s all about sliding into the action.

The trombone adds weight and might to the brass family, from the silky-smooth tenor trombone to the thunderous bass trombone, which is brilliant for adding oomph in dramatic passages.

S.e. Shires Q30Ya Q Series Professional Tenor Trombone Image Taken By Teds-List

S.E. Shires Q30YA Q Series Professional Tenor Trombone

S.e. Shires Q30Ya Q Series Professional Tenor Trombone Review
versatile enough to handle any playing situation
PERFECT FOR: Professionals

FEATURES: Handcrafted tenor trombone made with an outstanding dedication to detail.

OTHER INFO: Wide nickel silver slide crook.
Check Price >
9/10
PROS
  • Three interchangeable yellow brass lead pipes allow the player to customize the trombone’s response.
CONS
  • May require more maintenance and care to preserve its optimal performance.
What Retailer to Buy From?

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 TedScore™: 9/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
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™.
3

Tubas

Tubas provide the deep, foundational bass. A tuba’s large bell and brass body produce powerful low notes that underpin the orchestra. Despite its size, the tuba can be surprisingly elegant and expressive.

JUPITER JTU1020 Eb TUBA, CLEAR LACQUER

Jupiter Jtu1020 Eb Tuba, Clear Lacquer Review
HIGH-QUALITY AND VERSATILE

DESIGNED FOR: advancing tuba players

FEATURES: With steel pistons for smooth, fast action

OTHER INFO: Designed to be maintenance-friendly

Check Price >
8/10
PROS
  • Has a professional-looking silver-plated brass body
  • Built using state-of-the-art technology
  • Suitable for a wide range of musical styles and settings
  • Includes hard shell case and mouthpiece
CONS
  • Relatively heavy and may be difficult to manoeuvre for some players
What Retailer to Buy From?

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 TedScore™: 8/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
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 and Rhythm

Four

A Group Of Musicians Praticing The Percussion Section Of An Orchestra

The percussion section is the backbone of rhythm and energy. It’s the symphony’s spice cabinet, offering various sounds and textures.

1

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.

Yamaha YDP 145 Digital Piano

Yamaha Ydp 145 Digital Piano Review
IDEAL SOUND IN ALL VOLUMES

PERFECT FOR: beginners to intermediate players

FEATURES: a Graded Hammer Standard (GHS) keyboard with matte keytops

OTHER INFO: Built-in Yamaha CFX concert grand piano sound

Check Price >
10/10

Yamaha YDP 145 Digital Piano

PROS
  • The 88 weighted keys allow for expressive playing
  • Offers an authentic sound and playing experience
  • With a user-friendly interface for ease of use
CONS
  • Without Bluetooth connection
What Retailer to Buy From?

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.

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The TedScore™: 10/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
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™.
2

Drums

Drums are pivotal for maintaining the rhythm in my symphony orchestras. Snare drums swagger with a crisp and martial snap.

Ludwig Supraphonic Lm402 Snare Drum Image Taken By Teds-List

Ludwig Supraphonic LM402 Snare Drum

Ludwig Supraphonic Lm402 Snare Drum Review
The performance-proven Snare Drum
PERFECT FOR: Beginners

FEATURES: Chrome-plated aluminum shell.

OTHER INFO: Featuring a smooth shell and elegant-looking Imperial lugs
Check Price >
8/10
PROS
  • Timeless design and construction.
CONS
  • Some users may find that it produces more overtones than desired.
What Retailer to Buy From?

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 TedScore™: 8/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
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™.

Instruments in an Orchestra List:
Finale

A modern symphony orchestra truly showcases human creativity. It features over 100 skilled musicians playing instruments across strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion sections.

An Orchestra Set-Up On A Stadium Stage

From the proud, velvety hum of cellos to the bright chatter of violins, each string instruments add a distinct layer of warmth. The woodwind section brings a splash of color with each toot and trill.

With their commanding presence, brass instruments lend robust, golden tones that can both resonate powerfully and whisper tenderly.

The percussion instruments ensemble, ever diverse, is the rhythmic backbone, punctuating bass clef compositions with everything from the rattle of snare drums to the noble boom of timpani.

Orchestral instruments collectively form a breathtaking tapestry of sound. It’s a joy to share this musical jigsaw puzzle, where every piece is crucial.

I hope you’ve enjoyed our exploration of orchestral instruments.

Remember, each one plays a starring role in the magnificent orchestra we’ve come to cherish.

 

Hold on! There’s more…

Check out this comprehensive review of the Best Metronome Apps to help you find the most suitable option for your musical needs.

FAQ's

How many instruments are in an orchestra?

An orchestra typically consists of four main families of instruments: strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion. The number of instruments in each family can vary depending on the specific musical composition being performed.

What instruments are found in the orchestra?

The instruments of the orchestra comprises four main families:

  • Strings (violin, viola, cello, double bass)

  • Woodwinds (flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon)

  • Brass (trumpet, trombone, French horn, tuba)

  • Percussion (timpani, bass drum, cymbals, xylophone)

Each family contributes to the rich and diverse sound of the orchestra.

What instrument is a full orchestra?

A typical orchestra includes a wide range of instruments from the four main families: strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion. This encompasses instruments such as violins, flutes, trumpets, and timpani, among many others, creating a rich and dynamic musical ensemble.

What are the 5 instrument families of the orchestra?

The orchestra’s five instrument families are stringed instrument, woodwinds, brass, percussion, and keyboards. Each family contributes a unique range of sounds and textures to the orchestra’s overall musical tapestry.

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  1. Sara L. says:
    November 12, 2024 at 6:55 am

    Really appreciated the in-depth details about violins and violas. It’s fascinating to see how these instruments contribute uniquely to an orchestra. Always been a fan of the string section, and this just reignited my passion!

    Reply
    • Mike-J says:
      November 12, 2024 at 6:55 am

      Totally agree, Sara! The violin’s versatility always amazes me. Can’t wait to learn more.

      Reply
    • Ellie Broad says:
      November 12, 2024 at 6:55 am

      Any advice for someone starting with the viola?

      Reply
  2. Trent_232 says:
    November 12, 2024 at 6:55 am

    Harp? Sounds like my grandma’s music taste. No offense to harp lovers, just playing around haha.

    Reply

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