Introduction to orchestration
The 4 instrument families, their ranges and roles — doublings, balance, registers and SATB distribution in the orchestra.
In 1922, Sergei Diaghilev asked Ravel to orchestrate Mussorgsky's Pictures at an Exhibition for the Ballets Russes. Ravel spent months choosing each instrument for each tableau. Wh…
À retenir : Orchestration is not decoration: it is an essential part of composition. Before writing for an instrument, ask yourself: in which register does it sound best? What is its natural colour? How does it interact with the others? The ideal instrument played in its ideal register produces a beauty no other can replicate.
Instrument families and their characteristics
The symphony orchestra is organized into 4 major families. Each family has its own acoustic characteristics, ranges, and typical roles. Knowing these characteristics is the starting point for any orchestral writing.
Register map by range
| Voice | Register | Main instruments |
|---|---|---|
| Soprano | Sol3 – Do7 | Violon I, Flûte, Hautbois, Trompette |
| Mezzo / Alto | Do3 – Mi6 | Violon II, Alto, Clarinette, Cor |
| Tenor | Mi2 – Fa4 | Violoncelle, Trombone, Basson |
| Bass | Sib0 – Fa3 | Contrebasse, Tuba, Contrebasson |