Q1 MAPEH6 Orchestra and Instrument Families

This word comes from the Greek “orkhestra” and means a group of people who create music using instruments.

• Band

• Orchestra

• Ensemble

• Choir

The instrument family that produces sound when strings are bowed or plucked.

• Brass

• Strings

• Woodwinds

• Percussion

The instrument family that creates sound by blowing air through reeds or across holes.

• Woodwinds

• Strings

• Brass

• Percussion

The instrument family that uses lip vibration and air blown into a mouthpiece to produce sound.

• Brass

• Strings

• Percussion

• Woodwinds

The instrument family that produces sound by striking, shaking, or scraping.

• Strings

• Percussion

• Brass

• Woodwinds

Each of these groups in the orchestra has its own unique sound and role.

• Instrument Families

• Choir Sections

• Movements

• Scores

This is the largest section of the orchestra and produces sounds through plucking or bowing.

• Woodwind Family

• String Family

• Brass Family

• Percussion Family

The pitch in string instruments is affected by the length and thickness of the string. Which of the following is TRUE?

• Thick strings = high pitch, thin strings = low pitch

• Thick strings = low pitch, thin strings = high pitch

• Pitch does not depend on thickness

• Pitch only depends on bowing speed

Known as the soprano of the string family, this instrument is held under the chin and rests on the shoulder.

• Viola

• Cello

• Violin

• Harp

Slightly larger than the violin and tuned five notes lower, this instrument produces a darker and warmer tone.

• Viola

• Cello

• Double Bass

• Harp