Instruments of the Orchestra
Overview
Learn about the different families of instruments through appraising tasks along with learning ‘Ode to Joy’ on keyboards.
Example Key Words
Orchestra
A large group of musicians who play together on a variety of string, woodwind, brass and percussion instruments, led by a conductor.
Brass
Made out of metal these instruments are played by blowing through a cup shaped mouthpiece. The trombone is an example of a brass instrument.
Woodwind
Made out of wood or metal, a sound is made through woodwind instruments by blowing air through a very thin piece of shaved wood called a reed, or across a small mouthpiece. The clarinet is an example of a woodwind instrument.
Percussion
Percussion instruments are played by being struck or shaken. They can be tuned or non-tuned. A timpani is an example of a tuned percussion instrument.
Strings
String instruments use vibrating strings to make their sound. They can be played with a bow or plucked. The violin is an example of a string instrument.
Conductor
The leader of the ensemble who directs the musicians on how to play the piece and helps to keep the ensemble in time.