Below is the instrumentation of the main types of orchestral ensembles.
- Note: This may vary from one ensemble to another and/or depending on the repertoire being performed. It is therefore important to always confirm the available instrumentation before beginning the composition of a work.
Chamber Orchestra:
- Sometimes includes winds
- Strings orchestra (minimum: 4-4-3-2-1)
Classical Orchestra (sometimes considered a chamber orchestra):
2222 / 2200 / timp+1 / strings
- 2 flutes
- 2 oboes
- 2 B♭ clarinets
- 2 bassoons
- 2 horns in F
- 2 trumpets in C
- 1 timpani
- 1 percussions
- Strings section
Symphony Orchestra (or Romantic orchestra):
2*222 / 4231 / timp+2 / harp / strings
- 2 flutes (the 2nd flute may also double on piccolo)
- 2 oboes
- 2 B♭ clarinets
- 2 bassoons
- 4 horns in F
- 2 trumpets in C
- 2 tenor trombones + 1 bass trombone
- 1 tuba
- 1 timpani
- 2 percussions
- Harp (not always available – confirm with the orchestra)
- Strings section
Large Orchestra (or Full Orchestra):
3333 / 4231 / timp+3 / harp / piano / strings
- 2 flutes + 1 piccolo
- 2 oboes + 1 English horn
- 2 B♭ clarinets + 1 bass clarinet
- 2 bassoons + 1 contrabassoon
- 4 horns in F
- 2 trumpets in C
- 2 tenor trombones + 1 bass trombone
- 1 tuba
- 1 timpani
- 3 percussions
- Harp
- Piano / celesta (often played by the same musician)
- Strings section