Station Orchestra

Here you will learn a little bit about each of the instruments in the String family. There are links for each instrument connecting to different performers’ pages so you can hear samples of the sounds of each instrument. Keep in mind that each instrument comes in a variety of sizes, so no matter the instrument your child wishes to learn, there is a size that will fit him or her. For those who choose to play cello or bass, please note that Station has instruments for your student to use while at school.  The cellos or basses rented will remain at home.  For those who choose violin and viola, please note that these instruments must be taken to school and back home each day.

VIOLIN: The violin is the smallest and highest pitched instrument in the string family.  It is played by supporting the instrument on the left shoulder under the chin. Some famous violinists include: Jascha Heifetz , Itzhak Perlman, Joshua Bell, and Midori

VIOLA:  The viola looks very similar to the violin, and is in fact played the same way. The viola, however, has a lower, richer sound, and is just a little bit bigger than the violin. Some famous violists include: Pinchas Zukerman, Patricia McCarty, and Yuri Bashmet

CELLO: The cello is the only instrument in the orchestra that is always played while sitting. Much larger than the violin and viola, the cello is supported by an end pin that is extended to meet the ground while the instrument is supported by the player’s legs. Some famous cellists include: Mstislav Rostropovich , Jacqueline Dupre, Yo-Yo Ma, and Mischa Maisky

BASS: The bass is the largest and lowest sounding instrument in the orchestra. Bassists usually stand to play the bass which, like the cello, is supported by an extendable end pin that meets the ground.  Some famous bassists include:  Edgar Meyer, Francois Rabbath, Gary Karr, and Charles Mingus