Woodwind section puts more ornaments and some variations of tone color in the orchestra. These instruments make sound by blowing air over one or more reeds or across a whistling mouthpiece. Key instruments include:
- Flute: Traditionally being very bright and clear, the flute can be heard playing melodic lines or providing a sparkling accompaniment.
- Clarinet: This instrument has a smooth and very flexible tone to create nice and soft melody as well as powerful staking passages if needed.
- Oboe: Due to its bright and shrill sound quality the oboe is perfect for playing solistic and emphatic lines.
- Bassoon: Known as the choicest woodwind, bassoon gives out bass tones and employs odd, humorous and amusing tunes.
Woodwinds are typically placed behind the strings in order to have their individual qualities add to the orchestras tonal color.
Brass
The brass gives bass, might and coup d’état to the orchestral performance. Instruments made of brass are played through their lip which is placed on a mouthpiece. Key instruments include:
- Trumpet: With its brilliant and commanding tone, the trumpet often leads fanfares and dramatic climaxes.
- Trombone: Known for its bold and versatile sound, the trombone adds depth and character to both harmonies and melodies.
- Horn (French Horn): The horn’s mellow and warm tone blends beautifully with other sections while also excelling in solo passages.
- Tuba: The largest and lowest-pitched brass instrument, the tuba provides a solid bass foundation for the brass section.
Brass players are positioned at the back of the orchestra to balance their powerful sound with the more delicate tones of the strings and woodwinds.
Percussion
The brass gives bass, might and coup d’état to the orchestral performance. Instruments made of brass are played through their lip which is placed on a mouthpiece. Key instruments include:
- Timpani: Also known as kettledrums, timpani provide rhythmic drive and tonal accents.
- Snare Drum: Known for its sharp and crisp sound, the snare drum adds energy and precision to the music.
- Cymbals: These metallic instruments create dramatic crashes or subtle shimmering effects.
- Other Percussion: Instruments like the triangle, tambourine, xylophone, and bass drum offer diverse sounds and textures.
The percussion part is positioned in the rear of the orchestral so that its variability in dynamics can be controlled.