An orchestra is a large group of musicians who play together on a variety of string, wind and percussion instruments.

Leading the group of musicians in the conductor.

The instruments of the orchestra are organized into families:

Strings – String Instruments use vibrating strings to make their sound. The violin is an example of a string instrument.

Woodwinds – Woodwind instruments are made of a long hollow tube of wood or metal. The sound is made 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.

Brass – Brass instruments are wind instruments made of metal with a cup shaped mouthpiece. The tuba is an example of a brass instrument.

Percussion – Percussion instruments are played by being struck or shaken. A snare drum is an example of a percussion instrument.

Enjoy this interactive way to see and hear the instruments of the orchestra.