[EDIT 15th September 2007: Version 4 now online.]
Hello,
I've created an A3 sized wall reference chart for the common instruments of the orchestra. It is very detailed and I have thoroughly checked it for accuracy. I created it using Sibelius 4 and saved it as a pdf file.
It includes written and sounding ranges; dynamic ranges; timbral characteristics; additional comments outlining the strengths and weaknesses of each group.
Direct download courtesy of Hetoreyn:
http://www.elvenmusic.com/tech/tools/tools.html
Both PDF and Sibelius 4 formats are available.
I would recommend that you get it laminated for longevity. And also I'd suggest you print page 2 (bibliography) on a separate A3 sheet so it doesn't show through on page 1. Use good quality paper, possibly glossy, which will aid clarity.
Although, as I said, I have checked it for errors many times, I'd appreciate it if you could let me know if you spot any problems.
The exact ranges of the instruments are always a bone of contention, as no 2 books agree completely. But all the ranges I have settled on represent the extremes of each instrument, which are obtainable with professional players. In some cases, the ranges can be extended beyond that shown, with a good player.
Most, if not all, instrumentation books always list the written ranges first. I have listed the sounding ranges (other than the octave transposing instruments) first, because I always write my scores at concert pitch. Therefore, I find it much easier to look down the list and see the actual sounding range whenever I'm writing a part. I'm sorry if this bothers you, but that's my preference.
Finally, not everyone may agree with all the remarks made in the 'Additional Comments' column. These comments have been collated from the bibliography cited on page 2, and they are the views of the respective authors. I have printed them here as a guide only; if you have a good reason to disregard these comments then by all means do so.
I have this blue-tacked to the wall above my work area, and it certainly speeds up workflow.
All the best,
Mobius. [:)]
Hello,
I've created an A3 sized wall reference chart for the common instruments of the orchestra. It is very detailed and I have thoroughly checked it for accuracy. I created it using Sibelius 4 and saved it as a pdf file.
It includes written and sounding ranges; dynamic ranges; timbral characteristics; additional comments outlining the strengths and weaknesses of each group.
Direct download courtesy of Hetoreyn:
http://www.elvenmusic.com/tech/tools/tools.html
Both PDF and Sibelius 4 formats are available.
I would recommend that you get it laminated for longevity. And also I'd suggest you print page 2 (bibliography) on a separate A3 sheet so it doesn't show through on page 1. Use good quality paper, possibly glossy, which will aid clarity.
Although, as I said, I have checked it for errors many times, I'd appreciate it if you could let me know if you spot any problems.
The exact ranges of the instruments are always a bone of contention, as no 2 books agree completely. But all the ranges I have settled on represent the extremes of each instrument, which are obtainable with professional players. In some cases, the ranges can be extended beyond that shown, with a good player.
Most, if not all, instrumentation books always list the written ranges first. I have listed the sounding ranges (other than the octave transposing instruments) first, because I always write my scores at concert pitch. Therefore, I find it much easier to look down the list and see the actual sounding range whenever I'm writing a part. I'm sorry if this bothers you, but that's my preference.
Finally, not everyone may agree with all the remarks made in the 'Additional Comments' column. These comments have been collated from the bibliography cited on page 2, and they are the views of the respective authors. I have printed them here as a guide only; if you have a good reason to disregard these comments then by all means do so.
I have this blue-tacked to the wall above my work area, and it certainly speeds up workflow.
All the best,
Mobius. [:)]
