Overview

The strings section forms the foundation of the modern orchestra, consisting of instruments that produce sound by vibrating strings. These instruments—violins, violas, cellos, and double basses—are essential to orchestral music and can express a wide range of emotions from delicate and lyrical to powerful and dramatic.

Key Points

• The four main string instruments are arranged by size and pitch: violins (highest), violas (alto range), cellos (tenor range), and double basses (lowest)
• String instruments produce sound through a bow drawn across strings or by plucking the strings with fingers
• Violins are typically divided into first and second violin sections, each with distinct musical roles
• String players use techniques like vibrato, pizzicato, and harmonics to create varied tones and effects
• The strings section typically makes up about half of a full orchestra's musicians

Why This Matters

Understanding the strings section helps you appreciate how orchestras create their characteristic warm, blended sound and how composers use different string instruments to convey emotion and narrative. String instruments remain central to classical music, film scores, and many other musical genres.

Suggested Next Steps

• Woodwind Instruments of the Orchestra
• Brass Instruments of the Orchestra
• How to Read Musical Scores

Sources

• The Oxford Companion to Music
• The Cambridge Music Guide