Instrument Essentials

Upright bass, also called string bass or double bass, is a member of the orchestra family. Just as often, however, it appears in jazz, bluegrass, folk, and other genres. With a large hollow body and 4 thick strings, the tones produced by the upright bass are low and rich. The instrument is capable of long, expressive tones when played with a bow; and short, percussive tones when plucked with the strings. String bass is a dynamic and impressive instrument to play!

Although it is one of the biggest instruments in band or orchestra, they come in a variety of sizes to accommodate younger players.

If this is your first year in orchestra, you may need to check with your music director to see if upright bass is an option.

The oboe is a woodwind and a member of the double-reed family. It is played by blowing air through the reed, attached at the top of the instrument. The reed consists of two very thin pieces of cane, pressed together with a small opening to allow air to pass through. The sound can be high in pitch, but it has a variety of colorful tones, from bright and piercing to low and mysterious.

Oboe players must become familiar with the key system, which can appear complex at first. With daily practice and patience, playing the oboe can be fun and rewarding!