Orchestra Layout

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Orchestra Layout

The orchestra is made of four families of instruments: strings, brass, woodwinds and percussion. The sound of a modern orchestra is largely determined by where it is located on the stage. The instruments of the orchestra are placed in a semicircle (see the diagram above).

The strings (violin, viola, cello, double bass) are always in front. The most common seating arrangement places the first violins at the conductor’s left. The second violins and violas form the middle of the semicircle and the cellos at the conductor’s right with the double basses behind them.

The woodwinds (flute, oboe, clarinet and bassoon) are directly behind the strings with the four principal players forming a centre square.

Behind the woodwinds are the brass (trumpet, horn, trombone, and tuba). Usually the horns are on the conductor’s left and the other brass on his right. Normally, the winds and brass are seated on graduated risers so that you can be seen and heard above the strings.

The percussion section may appear in any arrangement at the back or left back of the orchestra. Timpani are usually placed opposite the low brass and strings.

Check that you understand what these words mean in this document
Arrangement : the order in which things are put.
Conductor: a person who directs the playing of a group of musicians.
Graduated risers: steps divided into levels.