Discovering Symphony Orchestra Instruments with Kids

A symphony is a complex musical composition for full orchestra. Composers such as Joseph Haydn shaped the symphony in the 1700s, and Beethoven and Tchaikovsky made it even more expressive, creating masterpieces that resonate to this day. Typically, you can see four sections of instruments on a concert stage: strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion, all of which make up a modern symphony orchestra. On stage, the string section features violins, violas, cellos, and double basses, ranging from the highest to lowest pitches. Smaller lever harps with 26 to 36 strings are ideal for kids, as they’re lighter and easier to handle. The woodwind instrument section is located near the string instrument section and includes instruments like the piccolo, flute, oboe, English horn, clarinet, bassoon, and contrabassoon.

The flute is a great starting point for a kid wanting to learn a classical woodwind instrument, though it does require strong lungs and a large hand span. The piano is sometimes included in a symphony orchestra, usually in the percussion section. You might not know this, but the trombone shares its origin with the trumpet and was once considered a “sacred instrument” used mainly in church services. The spirit- boosting music of brass bands is often played at festivals, and joining a school or local brass band for a parade would be a memorable experience. “Joy, bright spark of divinity, Daughter of Elysium, Fire-inspired we tread, Within thy sanctuary. Thy magic power re-unites, All that custom has divided, All men become brothers, Under the sway of thy gentle wings.”