The string family and the woodwind family
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Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can identify the characteristics of the string family and the woodwind family
Key learning points
- The orchestra is a large ensemble used often in classical music and film. It consists of four families of instruments.
- The strings consist of four main instruments: violin, viola, cello and double bass. They can be bowed or plucked.
- The woodwind family consists of five main instruments: flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon and saxophone.
- The saxophone is not used often in the orchestra.
- Each instrument in each family has a distinctive timbre.
Keywords
Orchestra - A large ensemble traditionally used in classical music and film music
Ensemble - A group of musicians performing together e.g. a choir, band or orchestra
Strings - A family of instruments in the orchestra which use bowed or plucked strings to produce a sound
Timbre - The timbre of an instrument is how it sounds
Woodwind - A family of instruments in the orchestra which use air to produce the sound
Common misconception
The string instruments can only be identified by pitch. The woodwind instruments are made of wood.
The pitch of the instruments does overlap slightly, so it's important to emphasise that the timbre of each instrument is slightly different. Most woodwind instruments were originally made of wood but the flute and the saxophone are now made of metal.
Teacher tip
Timbre descriptions are not fixed and are used to help pupils develop appropriate ways of identifying instruments. Demonstration of live instruments will enhance pupils' understanding. Consider embedding learning about the orchestra by watching live or recorded orchestral performances.
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