String Instruments Characteristics and Techniques

The video is part of a series by the New England Philharmonic, hosted by the Boston Children's Museum, introducing the string family of instruments. It covers the violin, viola, cello, and double bass, explaining their construction, sound, and playing techniques. Each instrument is demonstrated with musical pieces, highlighting their unique characteristics and roles within an orchestra.

What is the purpose of the New England Philharmonic's video series?

• To teach about different orchestra instruments

• To promote Boston Children's Museum

• To sell musical instruments

• To recruit new musicians

Which material is primarily used to make string instruments?

• Metal

• Plastic

• Glass

• Wood

Which instrument is the smallest and highest sounding in the string family?

• Violin

• Double Bass

• Cello

• Viola

What is a unique feature of the viola compared to the violin?

• It has the same strings as the cello

• It is played on the shoulder

• It has fewer strings

• It is smaller

What technique involves plucking the strings with fingers?

• Pizzicato

• Arco

• Legato

• Staccato

How is the cello held while playing?

• With a chin rest

• On a table

• Between the knees

• On the shoulder

Which string instrument can play both high and very low notes?

• Viola

• Violin

• Double Bass

• Cello

What is the main reason the cello strings sound lower than the viola strings?

• They are tuned differently

• They are made of metal

• They are longer

• They are thicker

What is the largest and lowest sounding instrument in the string family?

• Cello

• Double Bass

• Violin

• Viola

Which sound is a favorite of the double bass player?

• Mellow tone

• High pitch

• Low growl

• Sharp staccato