The Intricacies of Orchestral Performances
What are the main characteristics of an orchestra?
Choose the correct characteristics that match an orchestra:
A. Consists of a vast instrumental group with instruments from various families
B. Comprises only string instruments
C. Usually limited to 10 musicians
Main Characteristics of an Orchestra
The correct characteristic that matches an orchestra is: A. Consists of a vast instrumental group with instruments from various families
An orchestra is a vast instrumental group that comprises instruments from various families. It is a staple of melodious performances. In addition to typical orchestral instruments such as strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion, additional parts like the concert harp, piano, harpsichord, celesta, and sometimes even electronic instruments and guitars may feature in performances of contemporary compositions.
Depending on the piece being performed and the size of the venue, the number of musicians in an orchestra can vary from 70 to over 100. A full-size orchestra may also be referred to as a philharmonic or symphony orchestra, while a chamber orchestra is a more compact group with typically no more than fifty musicians.