A Helpful Guide to Hiring Musicians

Violin. The smallest member of the string family; it has the highest range in the orchestra and is most easily recognized as the melodic instrument in string trios or quartets

Viola. Slightly larger than the violin; it has a more mellow sound and slightly lower range and is used in string trios and quartets to complement the violin melody with harmony.

Cello. Larger than both the violin and viola with a lower range; it has a dark, rich sound and is played upright, resting between the cellist's knees; is often used solo or as the bass voice in a string trio or quartet

Bass. The largest of the string family; it is played standing upright and has the lowest, darkest sound of the four family members; it is never used in string trios or quartets, but is frequently used as a rhythm instrument in jazz ensembles.