Hi everyone, just stumbled across the site and thought some of you might be able to help. I am a student at school and am writing a piece to be played with the school orchestra in contemporary/rock style (the orchestral songs from silvchairs diorama is similar to the style i have in mind).

I play piano and guitar and have a good understanding of music theory but realise that there are many rules and conventions which must be followed by various instruments in the orchestra.

I have some good ideas for the brass and strings section but i am unsure how to use the woodwind section. At the moment i am doubling the melodies playing on other instruments but I was wondering whether people could offer some suggestions on some things to try for the woodwind section. Eg what sort of lines/phrases, what combinations of instruments used together etc

Any help or discussion will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks and well done on a great forum.

Hi, Newbie-

The first thing that will help is to know what is the real make-up of the woodwind section you are going to use. Woodwinds can be arranged by twos (2 flutes, 2 oboes, 2 clarinets, two bassoons) or by 3s (piccolo and 2 flutes, 2 oboes and eng, horn, 2 clarinets and bass clarinet, 2 bassoons and counter bassoon). Although the difference is not apparent, what you can do with each of these formations is completely different
Can you tell me more about your woodwinds section?

Thanx for ur reply.

Being a school orchestra, although the players themselves are quite talented, there are obvious limitations and this includes the instruments... I would say that it would be arranged by 3s, but i'm pretty sure we don't have an english horn player and that many bassoon players. Probably two bassoon players at most.