Orchestra Instruments
Here is a quick video of the main instruments we will teach this year: Hip-Hop Demo of Violin, Viola, and Cello
For String Bass, see below!
VIOLIN
This is the most common instrument in the orchestra, and in folk and other styles as well! It is the highest sounding of the strings and plays in treble clef. It is considered the king of the orchestra as it is able to carry diverse melodies ranging from extremely soft to powerful and dramatic. There are about 36 violin players in the Chicago Symphony, which is considered one of the best orchestras in world!
VIOLA
The viola looks a lot like a violin, but is slightly larger and has a lower, deeper sound! Violas play in alto clef (one of the very few instruments that use this clef). Advanced viola players also play in treble clef, like the violinists. Violas typically fill out the harmony in a string section. The lower sounding strings promote a rich, thick sound! The Chicago Symphony has about 12 viola players.
CELLO
The cello is usually played sitting down. Its voice is deep and mellow. Cellists play in bass clef, but also learn to play in tenor clef and in treble clef since the cello can play very high and very low notes. The cello can sound very warm and passionate and is often heard in movie music when the director wants to create an emotional feeling for the audience! The Chicago Symphony has about 11 cello players.
STRING BASS
The string bass is the largest of the strings, and can be played standing up or seated on a tall stool. It is played in symphony orchestras, concert bands, jazz bands, bluegrass bands, and just about any musical group! The Chicago Symphony typically has 9 bass players.