the sounds of the orchestra
learn to listen
An Orchestra is a large ensemble made up of over forty instruments.
Orchestra’s typically play classical music. Today, they are also used in Film Music, Modern Music, and some contemporary artists also write pop music for Orchestra.
Through time, some of the most monumental works of musical history have been written especially for Orchestra. Famous composers include Mahler, Stravinsky and Beethoven.
What makes up an Orchestra?
An Orchestra is made up of four main sections, or families, of instruments.
Strings
Woodwind
Brass
Percussion
An Orchestra also has a conductor. A conductor is the person who directs the Orchestra.
Meet the instruments
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Cello
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Bassoon
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Clarinet
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Tuba
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Double Bass
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Flute
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Viola
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Tombone
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Oboe
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Violin
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Trumpet
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Harp
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Grand Piano
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French Horn
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Timpani
“Music begins where the possibilities of language end”
— Jean Sibelius
Have a listen.
Orchestral sounds are resonant, raw and emotive. Each player in the Orchestra works together to create a particular mood, or personify a particular character.
Think of Orchestral Music as a way people can express themselves. Through music, composers, performers and audiences can share ideas, emotions and thoughts beyond what can be shared using traditional language.
Orchestral Music is designed to invoke feeling.
Listen to these examples - how do they make you feel?
Let’s listen
Explore the instruments of the Orchestra using the links below.
Woodwind
Percussion
Strings
Brass
