Instruments of the orchestra Flashcards
Orchestra
An orchestra is essentially a big group of musicians playing lots of different instruments.
String family
The string family contains five different instruments, and all but one can be played with a bow.
Bow
A bow is a long, partially curved rod with horsehair stretched along its length, used for playing string instruments.
Brass family
The brass family contains four different instruments made of brass, which are usually played by pressing down on valves.
Valves
Valves open and close to allow air into certain parts of the instrument, which produces different pitches.
Woodwind family
The woodwind family usually contains four different instruments, which were originally made of wood
Keys
Woodwind instruments are played by pressing keys to create different pitches.
Reed
A reed is a small piece of bamboo
Mallet
Mallets have long handles and ball-shaped heads that are usually covered in a soft material.
Percussion family
The percussion family contains a large variety of instruments that you tap, hit or shake to make a sound.
Conductor
The conductor is the person who stands at the front of the orchestra and directs the performance.