Timbre & Instrumentation

What is the definition of timbre?

• The unique quality of sound that an instrument makes.

• How loud or soft an instrument can play.

• How high or low an instrument can play.

• How fast or slow an instrument can play.

What are the names of the four families of instruments in an orchestra?

• Woodwind, Brass, Percussion, Strings

• Clarinet, Tuba, Flute, Trumpet

• Aerophone, Electrophone, Idiophone, Membranophone

• Piano, Organ, Guitar, Drums

Which of the following is NOT an instrument in the Woodwind Family?

• Flute

• Clarinet

• Oboe

• Trombone

A saxophone is a member of the Brass Family of instruments.

• True

• False

Which instrument is a member of the Brass Family of instruments?

• French Horn

• Cello

• Marimba

• Piccolo

Which of these four brass instruments can play the lowest note?

• Trumpet

• French Horn

• Tuba

• Trombone

The xylophone is a member of the Percussion Family of instruments.

• True

• False

Which of these is NOT a member of the Percussion Family of instruments?

• Triangle

• Maracas

• Timpani

• Bassoon

A cello plays in a higher range than a violin.

• True

• False

Which of these string instruments is NOT commonly found in an orchestra?

• harp

• banjo

• viola

• bass