Strings
This section of the orchestra is called the “strings” because all of the instruments in it have strings. Musicians play string instruments by stroking a bow (made of horse hair) over the strings, or by plucking the strings.
String Instruments
Violin
The smallest of the string instruments, the violin has a high, sweet sound. There are more violins in an orchestra than any other instrument!
Viola
The viola is a little bigger than the violin, and can play lowest notes.
Cello
The cello looks similar to a violin or viola, but is played between the knees of a musician sitting in a chair. The cello plays lower notes than a violin or viola, but higher notes than a double bass.
Double Bass
The largest of the strings, the bass can also play the lowest notes.
Harp
The harp has 47-48 strings and makes sound by plucking the strings with the fingers.