ABSTRACT

The full string orchestra is comprised of five sections. They are the first violin, second violin, viola, cello, and bass sections. The size of each section can vary, depending on the size of the orchestra. Economic considerations may ultimately determine how many string players can be hired. Whatever the size, there is usually a standard ratio that offers the best balance within the string orchestra. There are more first violins than second violins and the numbers in each remaining section continue to decrease. This is because the violin (being smaller and having shorter strings) is not always as loud as the larger string instruments and the higher notes in the first violin part need more players to establish a greater resonance. Each section, with the possible exception of the basses, is usually set up with an even number of players. There are two players per “desk,” or music stand. The player on one side will usually play the higher note in the event of an indication to divide (divisi), while the other player is usually responsible for page turns. An average breakdown of players in a very large orchestra might be 16 first violins, 14 second violins, 12 violas, 10 cellos, and eight basses (abbreviated as 16-14-12-10-8). This sum total of 60 string players will provide an idea of how expensive a group of this size can be. This is why, in today’s economy, along with the available technological advantages of sound production, string sections are usually much smaller.