The String Instruments
Violin
The violin is the smallest and the highest pitched instrument in the string orchestra the soprano voice of the string family. It is well known for its brilliant and beautiful
tone quality. The violin is held under the chin and supported by the player’s left
shoulder. An orchestra uses more violins than any other instrument, thus we always
have need for more violin players. The violin is different than the viola in these ways:
the violin is smaller, has a higher register, and reads the treble clef.
Viola
The viola resembles the violin, but is slightly larger in size. Many people assume the
violin and the viola are the same instrument. They are not! The viola reads a
different clef than the violin. The viola reads the alto clef and the violin reads the
treble clef. Students will have a hard time switching from viola to violin or vice versa
due to the clef differences. The viola produces a lower sound, similar to the alto
voice of a choir. Its mellow tone quality adds a unique dimension to the orchestra.
The violas are held similar to the violin. Good violists are always in demand in
various performing groups!
Cello
The violoncello, commonly called the cello, has a beautiful tone, which gives the
orchestra a rich, full sound. It produces a wide range of pitches and is equally popular
as a solo and orchestral instrument. The cello can be compared to the tenor voice of a
choir. It is supported on an endpin which rests on the floor, and the cello is always
played while seated. The cello reads the bass clef.
Bass
The Double Bass has a deep rich, dark sound, which gives the orchestra a solid
foundation. It can play the lowest notes in the orchestra. A very versatile instrument,
it can be used in variety of groups, from a symphony orchestra to a jazz group. It is
closely related to the electric bass guitar, which a good bass player can learn very
quickly. The bass is the largest instrument of the string family and it can be played in
either a sitting or standing position. The bass reads the bass clef, but sounds an octave
lower than what is actually written.