A concert band is a musical ensemble that plays a variety of instruments, including woodwinds, brass, and percussion. These instruments are divided into three instrument families, each with its unique sound and role in the band. The woodwinds include instruments such as the flute, clarinet, and saxophone, which provide a melodic and harmonic foundation to the band’s sound. The brass section consists of instruments like the trumpet, trombone, and French horn, and adds a bold and powerful element to the music. Finally, the percussion section features instruments such as the snare drum, bass drum, and cymbals, and provides the rhythmic drive and energy that keeps the band moving forward. Together, these three instrument families create a rich and dynamic sound that is the hallmark of a concert band.

The Woodwind Family

The Flute

History of the Flute in Concert Band Music

The flute has been a staple in concert band music for centuries, with origins dating back to ancient civilizations such as Greece and Rome. However, the modern flute as we know it today began to take shape in Europe during the 16th and 17th centuries. It was during this time that the instrument underwent significant changes, including the development of the key system, which allowed for greater precision and ease of playing.

How the Flute Works

The flute is a wind instrument that produces sound when air is blown across a sharp edge, causing the air to vibrate and produce a tone. The flute is played by holding the instrument horizontally and blowing air across the embouchure hole, which is the opening where the air is blown. The player then uses their fingers to cover and uncover the tone holes, which are located along the body of the flute, to produce different notes.

Common Flute Types Found in Concert Bands

There are several types of flutes commonly found in concert bands, including the piccolo, the C flute, and the alto flute. The piccolo is the highest-pitched instrument in the flute family and is often used to add brightness and contrast to the ensemble. The C flute is the most commonly used flute in concert bands and is pitched in the key of C. The alto flute is a larger instrument than the C flute and is typically used to play lower notes in the ensemble.

The Clarinet

The clarinet is a woodwind instrument that has been a staple in concert bands for centuries. It is known for its distinctive sound and versatility, making it a favorite among band directors and musicians alike.

History of the Clarinet in Concert Band Music

The clarinet has a rich history in concert band music, dating back to the 18th century. It was first used in orchestral music and gradually became a standard instrument in concert bands. The modern clarinet was developed in the late 19th century, and since then, it has remained an essential part of the concert band ensemble.

How the Clarinet Works

The clarinet is a woodwind instrument that uses a single reed to produce sound. The reed is attached to the mouthpiece and when air is blown into the instrument, the reed vibrates, producing a unique tone. The clarinet has a range of over three octaves and is capable of producing a wide variety of sounds, from soft and mellow to loud and brilliant.

Common Clarinet Types Found in Concert Bands

There are several types of clarinets commonly found in concert bands, including the B-flat clarinet, the A clarinet, and the bass clarinet. The B-flat clarinet is the most commonly used in concert bands and is known for its bright and powerful sound. The A clarinet is smaller and has a higher pitch, while the bass clarinet is larger and has a lower pitch. Each type of clarinet has its own unique sound and is used to add depth and variety to the concert band’s overall sound.

The Saxophone

History of the Saxophone in Concert Band Music

The saxophone was invented by the Belgian instrument maker, Adolphe Sax, in the 1840s. It was initially designed as a solo instrument for military bands, but quickly became popular in orchestral and chamber music settings as well. The saxophone’s distinctive sound and versatility made it a staple of concert band music, with composers such as John Philip Sousa and Gustav Mahler incorporating it into their works.

How the Saxophone Works

The saxophone is a woodwind instrument that uses a single reed to produce sound. The reed is attached to the mouthpiece and vibrates when air is blown through it, creating a sound wave that is amplified by the instrument’s body. The saxophone has a unique design that allows for different keys to be pressed or pressed and held down, altering the pitch of the sound produced.

Common Saxophone Types Found in Concert Bands

There are several types of saxophones commonly found in concert bands, each with its own unique sound and range. The most common types include:

• Alto saxophone: The most commonly used saxophone in concert bands, the alto saxophone has a bright and projecting sound, making it well-suited for solo and ensemble pieces.
• Tenor saxophone: The tenor saxophone has a fuller, warmer sound than the alto saxophone, making it well-suited for jazz and blues music.
• Baritone saxophone: The baritone saxophone has a rich, deep sound and is often used in jazz and classical music.
• Soprano saxophone: The soprano saxophone has a high-pitched, bright sound and is used primarily in jazz and classical music.

Overall, the saxophone is an essential instrument in concert bands, with its unique sound and versatility making it a staple of the genre.

The Brass Family

The Trumpet

The trumpet is a brass instrument that has been a staple in concert bands for centuries. It is known for its bright and powerful sound, and is often featured as a solo instrument in many pieces of music.

History of the Trumpet in Concert Band Music

The trumpet has been used in music for thousands of years, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt and Greece. However, the modern trumpet as we know it today began to take shape in the 15th century, with the development of the valve system allowing for greater precision and ease of playing.

In the 19th century, the trumpet became a popular instrument in military and orchestral music, and its use in concert bands continued to grow in the 20th century. Today, the trumpet remains an essential instrument in concert bands, with its bright and bold sound contributing to the overall sonic landscape of the ensemble.

How the Trumpet Works

The trumpet is a brass instrument, which means that it produces sound by vibrating a metal tube. The player creates sound by buzzing their lips into a mouthpiece, which is attached to the tube. The tube is bent into a loop, and the player can change the pitch of the sound by adjusting the length of the tube using a slide.

The trumpet also has three valves, which allow the player to change the length of the tube and play different notes. By pressing down on the valves, the player can shorten the length of the tube and play notes that are higher in pitch.

Common Trumpet Types Found in Concert Bands

There are several different types of trumpets that are commonly used in concert bands, each with its own unique characteristics and uses. The most common types of trumpets include:

• B-flat trumpet: This is the most common type of trumpet used in concert bands, and is typically used for solo and ensemble performances.
• C trumpet: This trumpet is a step up in size from the B-flat trumpet, and is used primarily in orchestral and solo performances.
• Piccolo trumpet: This is the smallest type of trumpet, and is used primarily for its high-pitched, bright sound in solo and ensemble performances.

Overall, the trumpet is an essential instrument in concert bands, with its bright and powerful sound contributing to the overall sonic landscape of the ensemble. Whether playing a solo or as part of an ensemble, the trumpet is a versatile and dynamic instrument that can add depth and texture to any piece of music.

The Trombone

History of the Trombone in Concert Band Music

The trombone has a rich history in concert band music, dating back to the 15th century. Initially used in church and military music, it eventually found its way into orchestral and concert band music as well. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, composers such as Mahler and Strauss began to incorporate the trombone into their works, further solidifying its place in concert band music.

How the Trombone Works

The trombone is a wind instrument that uses a slide to change the length of the instrument’s tubing, producing different notes. When the player presses the trigger, the slide is closed, and the air column is shortened, producing a higher pitch. To produce a lower pitch, the player moves the slide to lengthen the air column. The player also uses a slide trigger to keep the slide in place while playing.

Common Trombone Types Found in Concert Bands

There are several types of trombones commonly found in concert bands, each with its own unique characteristics. The most common types include:

• Tenor Trombone: This is the most common type of trombone found in concert bands. It has a medium-sized bore and is pitched in B-flat.
• Bass Trombone: This type of trombone has a larger bore than the tenor trombone and is pitched in B-flat. It is used to provide a bass sound in the concert band.
• Alto Trombone: This type of trombone has a smaller bore than the tenor trombone and is pitched in E-flat. It is used to provide a higher-pitched sound in the concert band.

The French Horn

History of the French Horn in Concert Band Music

The French horn has a rich history in concert band music, dating back to the 17th century. It was initially used primarily in court and military music, but eventually became a staple in orchestral and concert band music as well. The modern French horn has evolved significantly over the years, with improvements in materials and design leading to a more versatile and expressive instrument.

How the French Horn Works

The French horn is a brass instrument that uses a conical bore and a flared bell to produce its distinctive sound. Air is blown into the instrument through a mouthpiece, which creates a vibration that travels through the horn and is amplified by the bell. The player can adjust the pitch of the horn by using a set of valves or a hand-operated slide, allowing for a wide range of notes to be played.

Common French Horn Types Found in Concert Bands

There are several types of French horns commonly found in concert bands, each with its own unique characteristics and uses. The most common types include:

• Solo Horn: This is the most common type of French horn used in orchestral and solo performances. It has a larger bell and a more agile range, making it ideal for complex solos and technical passages.
• French Horn: As the name suggests, this type of horn is most commonly used in French and European classical music. It has a warmer, more mellow sound than the solo horn and is typically used for more lyrical and expressive passages.
• Euphonium: While not technically a French horn, the euphonium is often included in concert bands due to its similar appearance and sound. It has a smaller bore and a more compact design, making it easier to handle and more suitable for younger players.

The Percussion Family

The Snare Drum

History of the Snare Drum in Concert Band Music

The snare drum has been a staple in concert band music for over a century. It first appeared in the early 1800s and quickly became a popular addition to orchestral and military music. In the late 1800s, the snare drum gained prominence in American concert bands, and it has remained an essential part of the ensemble ever since.

How the Snare Drum Works

The snare drum is a membranophone, which means it produces sound by vibrating a stretched membrane. The snare drum consists of a shallow, round metal or plastic shell with a thin, snugly-tightened head at one end. The head is typically made of synthetic materials like Mylar or Kevlar, which give the drum its characteristic bright, sharp sound.

The snare drum’s distinctive sound comes from the wires or ribbons that stretch across the bottom head, called the batter head. When the drum is struck with a drumstick or mallet, the wires or ribbons vibrate, creating a snappy, metallic sound. This is the “snare” effect, which gives the instrument its name.

Common Snare Drum Types Found in Concert Bands

There are several types of snare drums commonly used in concert bands, each with its own unique characteristics:

1. Side Drum: This traditional military snare drum has a deep, bassy sound and is typically used for marches and fanfares.
2. Snare Drum: A smaller, more versatile drum, the snare is the most common type found in concert bands. It is often used for rhythm and accentuation.
3. Quad Drum: Also known as a “four-drum” or “cymbal drum,” this type of snare drum has an additional row of tension rods and cymbals, providing a wider range of sounds and greater versatility.
4. Xylophone Snare Drum: This type of snare drum has a flat bottom head and is used primarily for its high-pitched, crisp sound in orchestral and concert band music.

In conclusion, the snare drum is a crucial instrument in the percussion family, with a rich history and a variety of types that contribute to the dynamic and versatile sound of the concert band.

The Bass Drum

The bass drum is a vital component of the percussion section in a concert band. It provides the foundation for the band’s rhythm and is responsible for setting the tempo for many pieces.

History of the Bass Drum in Concert Band Music

The bass drum has been a staple in concert band music for over a century. It was first introduced in the late 1800s and has since become an essential part of the concert band’s sound. The bass drum’s deep, resonant tone adds a powerful and dynamic element to the band’s music.

How the Bass Drum Works

The bass drum is a cylindrical drum that is struck with a mallet or drumstick. The drumhead is made of thick, tightly woven fabric, which allows it to produce a rich, resonant sound. The drum is typically mounted on a stand, which allows the drummer to adjust the height and angle of the drumhead.

Common Bass Drum Types Found in Concert Bands

There are several types of bass drums that are commonly used in concert bands. The most common type is the acoustic bass drum, which is played with a mallet or drumstick. Another type is the electric bass drum, which is triggered electronically and can be used to create a variety of sounds. Some concert bands also use a pedal bass drum, which is played with the foot and produces a deeper, more resonant sound.

The Cymbals

Cymbals are a type of percussion instrument that are commonly found in concert bands. They are known for their bright and crashing sounds, which add a unique element to the band’s overall sound. In this section, we will explore the history of cymbals in concert band music, how they work, and the common types of cymbals found in concert bands.

History of the Cymbals in Concert Band Music

Cymbals have been used in music for thousands of years, with evidence of their use dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. However, the modern concert band cymbal as we know it today began to take shape in the 19th century. It was during this time that the cymbal began to be used as a standalone instrument, rather than simply being used as a prop or visual element in a performance.

As concert bands continued to evolve and develop, so too did the role of the cymbal. Today, cymbals are an essential part of the concert band’s percussion section, with a wide range of styles and techniques being used to create dynamic and interesting sounds.

How the Cymbals Work

Cymbals are struck with a drumstick or mallet, and the sound is produced by the vibration of the metal cymbal disc. The cymbal disc is made of a brass alloy, which gives it its distinctive bright and clear tone. When the cymbal is struck, the vibration of the metal disc creates a sound wave that travels through the air, resulting in the characteristic crash or ride cymbal sound.

In addition to being struck with a drumstick or mallet, cymbals can also be played using a variety of techniques, such as rolling, bowing, and sweeping. These techniques allow the cymbal player to create a wide range of sounds and textures, adding depth and complexity to the overall sound of the concert band.

Common Cymbal Types Found in Concert Bands

There are several different types of cymbals that are commonly found in concert bands, each with its own unique sound and playing characteristics. Some of the most common types of cymbals include:

• Crash cymbals: These cymbals are designed to produce a loud, explosive sound when struck. They are typically used in conjunction with other percussion instruments, such as snare drums and bass drums, to create dynamic accents and fills.
• Ride cymbals: Ride cymbals are larger and thinner than crash cymbals, and are designed to produce a sustained, rolling sound. They are often used to provide a steady beat or rhythm, and can also be used to create dynamic accents and fills.
• Hi-hats: Hi-hats are a pair of cymbals that are mounted on a stand and played with a pedal. They produce a staccato, chattering sound when played open, and a smooth, legato sound when played closed. Hi-hats are often used to provide a steady pulse or rhythm, and can also be used to create dynamic accents and fills.

Overall, cymbals are an essential part of the concert band’s percussion section, providing a bright and dynamic element to the band’s overall sound. Whether played in conjunction with other percussion instruments or used as a standalone instrument, cymbals add a unique and dynamic element to the concert band’s performance.

The Marimba and Xylophone

The marimba and xylophone are two of the most popular instruments in the percussion family, and they play a crucial role in the concert band. They are both woodwind instruments that are made from rosewood or padauk, and they have a series of bars that are struck by mallets to produce sound.

History of the Marimba and Xylophone in Concert Band Music

The marimba has its roots in Africa, where it was used in traditional music. It was later introduced to the United States in the early 20th century, and it quickly became a popular instrument in concert bands. The xylophone, on the other hand, has its origins in Europe, and it was first used in orchestral music. It later became a staple in concert bands, and it is now one of the most commonly used instruments in this genre.

How the Marimba and Xylophone Work

The marimba and xylophone work by using mallets to strike a series of wooden bars. The bars are arranged in a ascending order, and they are tuned to produce specific notes. The mallets are made from a variety of materials, including wood, rubber, and fiberglass, and they are used to produce different tones and timbres.

Common Marimba and Xylophone Types Found in Concert Bands

There are several types of marimbas and xylophones that are commonly used in concert bands. These include the:

• Rosewood marimba
• Padauk marimba
• Xylophone
• Piccolo xylophone
• Bass marimba
• Contrabass marimba

Each of these instruments has its own unique sound and is used to add depth and complexity to the overall sound of the concert band.

FAQs

1. What are the three instrument families found in a concert band?

The three instrument families found in a concert band are woodwinds, brass, and percussion. Woodwinds include instruments such as the flute, clarinet, saxophone, and bassoon. Brass instruments include trumpet, trombone, French horn, and tuba. Percussion instruments include drums, timpani, and mallet instruments such as xylophone and marimba.

2. What are the different types of woodwind instruments in a concert band?

The different types of woodwind instruments in a concert band include flute, clarinet, saxophone, and bassoon. Each instrument has a unique sound and is played using a different technique. Flutes are played by blowing air across a mouthpiece, while clarinets and saxophones are played by pressing keys on the instrument with the right hand and blowing air with the left hand. Bassoon is played by using a long reed and a double reed mouthpiece.

3. What are the different types of brass instruments in a concert band?

The different types of brass instruments in a concert band include trumpet, trombone, French horn, and tuba. Trumpets are played by buzzing the lips into a mouthpiece, while trombones are played by using a slide to change the length of the instrument and buzzing the lips into the mouthpiece. French horns are played by pressing keys on the instrument with the right hand and using the left hand to adjust the bell of the instrument. Tubas are played by buzzing the lips into a mouthpiece and using a large bell to amplify the sound.

4. What are the different types of percussion instruments in a concert band?

The different types of percussion instruments in a concert band include drums, timpani, and mallet instruments such as xylophone and marimba. Drums are played by striking a drumhead with sticks or hands, while timpani are played by striking a pedal-operated mallet against a drumhead. Mallet instruments are played by striking a key or lever with a mallet, which produces a distinctive sound.

Families of Instruments LF