Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra Quiz

What is the primary purpose of the strings section in an orchestra?

• To provide rhythm

• To play the main melody

• To add special effects

• To support the brass section

Which instrument is NOT part of the woodwind section?

• Clarinet

• Flute

• Trumpet

• Oboe

What family does the timpani belong to?

• Strings

• Woodwinds

• Percussion

• Brass

Which of the following is a characteristic of the brass section?

• They use reeds to produce sound

• They are primarily used for rhythm

• They can play very loud or very soft

• They are the smallest section in the orchestra

Who typically leads an orchestra?

• The concertmaster

• The lead violinist

• The composer

• The conductor

What is the role of the harp in an orchestra?

• To provide the base rhythm

• To add unique sounds and textures

• To lead the melody

• To support the brass section

Which of these instruments is tuned before each performance by the orchestra?

• Violin

• Oboe

• Piano

• All of the above

What does the term "pizzicato" mean when used in reference to string instruments?

• Played with a bow

• Played by plucking the strings

• Played with mallets

• Played very softly

Which section of the orchestra usually sits at the front and center?

• Brass

• Percussion

• Strings

• Woodwinds

What is the function of the conductor's baton?

• To play an instrument

• To signal the tempo

• To point at musicians who make mistakes

• To be used as a musical instrument