Instrument Webquest By: Nick S, Katie L, and Peter K. 2/16/12

Introduction We will tell you about our student Ralph the instruments of band and orchestra what instrument we recommend for Ralph

Things about our student Ralph Good student Very quiet Doesn’t like being in the spotlight His parents are very musical Only musical experience is the recorder Doesn’t like music that’s too loud Struggles a little at hearing pitches

Strings Violin- highest pitched in string family, many more violins than any other instrument in orchestra, usually the first choice of a musician who wants to learn a string instrument. Viola- second highest in string family Cello- 2 times as long as violin, wide range of sounds. Double Bass- low pitch, very big, can be played with your fingers or a bow.

Percussion Glockenspiel- Glockenspiel is the German word for “bell- play”, high pitched, bright sounds. Snare drums- small double sided drum, metal wires (snares) stretched across bottom and rattle, no pitch. Timpani- only drum that produces definite pitches, Italian for “kettle drum”, you use a pedal to tighten/loosen top to change pitch. Cymbals- two round metal plates, create clashing sounds when struck, range of loud and soft sounds.

Woodwind Flute- 2 feet long, high pitch Oboe- low sound Clarinet- can play many notes quickly Alto Saxophone- only woodwind instrument made of brass, considered a woodwind instrument because it has a single reed.

Brass Trumpet/Cornet- highest pitched sound in brass family, played by holding it horizontally and pressing the three valves French Horn- played by holding it with the bell down and buzzing the mouthpiece Trombone- is 9 feet long, you push and pull the sliding piece to play it. Tuba- largest in the brass family, lowest pitched.

Recommendations String- Double bass: It has low pitches and is not in the spotlight. Woodwind- Flute: It makes a medium pitched sound and it is small.

Recommendations Brass- Trumpet: It is average sized and not that loud. Percussion- Snare Drums: It has no pitch and is out of the spotlight.

Credits Websites found in Mr. Turner’s website at: s.html