String orchestra basics 3/3 - Philipp Dangas

General information about sound combinations with the string orchestra

The string orchestra belongs to a tonally homogeneous family. That is why the same conditions for a tonal combination with the other instruments apply to the string orchestra. In individual cases, the voice range of the string instrument or of the other instruments that come into question for a combination must be taken into account.

Combination partner string orchestra - woodwind instruments

The following applies to the unison combination: the sound of the strings becomes fuller and stronger and the woodwind becomes softer. The following applies to the octave and chord combination: the sound of the individual woodwinds comes into its own in comparison to the string group (the deciding factor is voice pitch, voice leading and dynamics ).

Combination partner string orchestra - brass instruments

The following applies to the sound effect with the brass section: less good effect with the brass section is achieved with the unison combination, especially with the trumpets and trombones, while the horns blend particularly well with the cellos. Good effects can be achieved when: the unison of the strings with the brass is supported by another unison with one or more woodwinds.

Further combination partners from the string orchestra

Good quality effects can be achieved with percussion and plucked instruments (e.g. timpani, snare drum, bass drum, harp, respectively) when certain stroke types are applied.

The string orchestra as part of the „symphonic world music“

The sound combinations of the string orchestra can form the basis for creating a "dark" sound character. Especially the violas and the cellos. In combination with the woodwinds (primary importance), the brass (secondary importance) and the plucked instruments (tertiary importance), they can form the foundation of a world symphonic music orchestra.