The Orchestra

An orchestra is a big team of musicians. They play many kinds of instruments at the same time. A leader called a conductor stands in front and helps everyone play together. Orchestras often play classical music in large concert halls.

Parts of the Orchestra

An orchestra has four main sections of instruments. The string section has violins, violas, cellos, and basses. The woodwind section has flutes, clarinets, and oboes. The brass section has trumpets, trombones, and tubas. The percussion section has drums and other instruments you hit.

The Conductor

The conductor is the leader of the orchestra. They stand on a small platform so everyone can see them. They wave a thin stick called a baton to keep the beat. The conductor also tells the musicians when to play loud or soft. A good conductor helps the whole group sound like one big instrument.

Fun Facts

• A full symphony orchestra can have more than 100 musicians.
• The violins usually sit closest to the conductor.
• Orchestras tune their instruments to the note A before each concert.

Did You Know?

The word 'orchestra' comes from an ancient Greek word that means the space in front of a stage where dancers performed.