Instruments of the Orchestra

Instrument Families

When we talk about musical instruments, we often talk about them as being part of a family. That's because, just like in human families, the instruments in a particular family are related to each other. They are often made of the same types of materials, usually look similar to one another, and produce sound in comparable ways. Some are larger and some are smaller, just as parents are bigger than children.

Strings

Learn about the string instruments: violin, viola, cello, double bass, and harp!

Woodwinds

Learn about the woodwind instruments: flute, oboe, clarinet, and bassoon!

Brass

Learn about the brass instruments: trumpet, french horn, trombone, and tuba!

Percussion

Learn about the percussion instruments: timpani, xylophone, cymbals, piano, and more!

Continue Exploring

Symphony Storytime

Experience a fun and unique video series from the Oregon Symphony designed for pre-K through elementary aged children and their families to experience popular story books.

minute for music

A couple of times every week, enjoy one-minute videos created for you, by your Oregon Symphony musicians.

Essential Sounds

Join the Oregon Symphony for a collective musical celebration of the people who are essential in our lives.