January 10, 200719 yr I've been composing for some years now, but all the composing I've done has been done for midi. So the notation wasn't made to be played by real instruments. I'm now at the moment trying to do a band piece meant to be played by real muscians. I'm famillar with the different instruments to a certain degree, but I don't know their practical range, the clef or key each of them play in. If somebody could direct me to a website or somewhere where I could obtain that information I would be grateful. thankyou.
January 10, 200719 yr A great site for the application of orchestration is here. Ideally though, you really need to go and buy yourself a book on Orchestration. At the moment I'm reading through Berlioz' Treatise. It's really rather good, and comprehensive. Plus lots of additions of examples from Wagner etc. courtesy of Strauss' updating of the book. Of course you could get the ones by Adler and Rimsky-Korsakov as well - they're the other usual standards. One of the most important things is that you yourself know the instruments of the orchestra. Obviously listening widely, and personal experience are great for this, but books will tell you things you mightn't have otherwise realised.
January 10, 200719 yr Absolutely check my topic in the Composer's Headquarters forum named Philharmonia. It's the most entertaining and informational site on just about every single instrument of the entire orchestra (with hundreds of video clips of members ing the Philharmonic Orchestra in London for all instruments).
January 10, 200719 yr I don't remember where I got this pdf from, but it's the most useful chart I've ever seen. I have a laminated printout of it that sits right next to my computer. It's geared for orchestra, but most of the concert band instruments are covered. I refer back to it all the time. Instrument Ranges + Characteristics.pdf
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