Instruments

Hildebrandt Orchestra features musicians on string instruments, including violin, viola, cello, bass, and harp.  Our students typically begin on an instrument in our 5th Grade Strings programs, and can choose between violin, viola, cello, or bass. Students interested in harp will need to talk with Ms. Dodgen for more helpful details. 

Violin is the smallest instrument in a string orchestra.  Violins have E, A, D, and G strings, and typically carry the melody in most pieces of music. 

Viola is the second smallest instrument in a string orchestra, and the instrument is played on the shoulder.  Violas have A, D, G, and C strings, and typically carry the harmony or counter-melody.  Violas play an important role in the orchestra as they carry the middle-notes in chords and music.

Cello is the second largest instrument in a string orchestra, and is played seated with the instrument between the musicians knees. Cellos also have A, D, G, and C strings, and have a wide-ranging role in the orchestra, as they can play the melody, harmony, and lower notes in chords.

Bass is the largest instrument in a string orchestra, and is played seated on a stool or standing, with the instrument resting against the musician.  Basses have G, D, A, and E strings, and serve the role of providing the bass (or low) notes in chords.