Introduction To The Orchestra

Being in the audience of a live orchestra can be one of the most captivating and uplifting experiences you will experience. Still these days going to see an orchestra such as The London Symphony Orchestra is still an occasion to be treated as special and many dress up in their finery and make a night of it.

An orchestra is essential a group of instrumentalists each a member of a specific section including; string, woodwind, brass and percussion generally lead at the front by a conductor. The primary duties of the conductor are to unify performers, set the tempo, execute clear preparations and beats, and to listen critically and shape the sound of the ensemble (Wikipedia, 2011). Essentially the role of the conductor is to keep the orchestra performing as one well oiled musical machine, to keep the time and ensure that the piece or music or their particular arrangement is being adhered to by the musicians.

The name of the orchestra is defined by the size of the assemble, generally an orchestra of roughly one hundred musicians is labelled as a full size orchestra which are also commonly known as philharmonic or symphony. In saying that you do not need 100 instrumentalists to be classes as an orchestra there are often groups that are much smaller, 50 members or so often known as a chamber orchestra.

One of the most interesting aspects of the orchestra is how it is organised in to different musical sections each with it's own principle performer who is the one who leads and plays any of the solos. The sections in an orchestra are, Woodwinds which include the flutes, oboes and bassoons among others. The string section includes, harps, violins and double bass the percussion section includes, the drums, the xylophones and not forgetting the all important triangle! There are also the keyboards and brass sections that make up a full size modern day orchestra.

Some of the biggest and most famous orchestras are the London Symphony and the London Philharmonic orchestras, the London Symphony orchestra since 1982 has been based in the Barbican Centre in London. The London Philharmonic was formed in 1982 and is based in the Royal Festival Hall in the South bank centre in London. The London Philharmonic orchestra has played a part in the soundtracks of some of the most famous films of the 20th century including the epic Lawrence of Arabia.

Orchestras are one of the biggest attractions and achievements of many cities throughout the world and are still a sight to behold when one has the pleasure of viewing them live. A full orchestra is an experience that is going to stay with you for years to come and no doubt encourage a repeat visit.

By: Key Player

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