Instruments
What kind of sounds do you like best? Do you enjoy the high notes of the violin? Do you prefer the medium notes of the viola? Do you like the deep, lush notes of the cello or bass? Sometimes it can be helpful to think of string instruments like voices in a choir. The violin is like the soprano, the viola the alto, cello the tenor, and double-bass like the bass voice.
Violin
The violin is held on the shoulder and is the highest voice of the orchestra. Students will rent a violin from the music store and will take it to and from school every day. Please do not purchase a violin.
Cello
The cello rests on the floor while being played. The sound of the cello is most like the human voice.
At Rice MS, most cellists use a school issued cello at school and rent a cello from the music store for practice at home. This option keeps students from having to carry a large instrument to and from school every day.
Cello Examples: The Swan Bach Prelude
Bass
The bass rests on the floor while being played. Bass players get to sit on stools. The bass has the deepest sound and plays a vital role in the sound of the orchestra.
At Rice MS, bass players use a school issued bass at school and rent a bass from the music store for practice at home. This option keeps students from having to carry a large instrument to and from school every day.
Bass Examples: Bottesini Pink Panther
