The String Section has the largest number of players in the orchestra. This is because it takes many strings to create a rich sound that balances well with the woodwinds, brass, and percussion.
All stringed instruments are made of wood and have strings stretched over them. The strings are made of gut, steel, or nylon. They are played with a bow – a long stick that has horsehair attached to it. Usually the bow is drawn across the strings. This is called bowing or playing arco. Stringed instruments can also be played by plucking or strumming the strings with the fingers. This technique is called pizzicato.
