In an orchestra, are all the percussion instuments played by one person?

Question

I think they are...but I'm not sure...

Answer 1

Not necessarily---depending upon the particular piece of music being performed, you might have one lone percussionist playing the timpani (kettle drums) in a symphonic work by Haydn or Mozart; on the other hand, in a piece of music by another composer from the late 19th century (such as Brahms, Bruckner, Wagner, Mahler) or the 20th century (such as Hindemith, Bartok, Prokofiev, and others) may have several percussionists.

I would highly recommend that you listen to any symphony by Haydn, Mozart, or Beethoven, noting what percussion instruments are used. Then listen to any orchestral work by Brahms, Wagner, Bartok, etc., to get an idea of the range and variety of uses for percussion in the orchestra.

Hope this helps.

Best wishes.

Answer 2

It all depends on how big the orchestra is. Usually there are about 3 percussionists alternating between parts. There is usually more than one percussion part being played in a song.

Answer 3

no, i played the tympani at a symphony orchestra concert, while three others played the other percussion parts. And, I went to go see the Valley Symphony Orchestra, in my area, and They had about five percussionists.

Answer 4

No. There's a different musician for each percussion instrument. They should just use a drummer with a big drum set.....Ha.....

Answer 5

no, usually there are a few different percussionists that play different drums, there will usually be a bass drummer, snare drummer, timpani, xylophone, etc.

Answer 6

I don't think they are. I think they are spread out agmonst different members. like one might play drums. one might play something else. I might be wrong though.

Answer 7

No.