Orchestra musicians and their instruments

A key player in orchestras outside the U.S., the instrument’s profile is tended to by Nick Ariondo, Samuel Zyman and others.

April 20, 2008

For players, the instruments set the gold standard with an ethereal `carpet of sound.’

April 22, 2007

Whether its tones are signaling dread or enforcing the ensemble’s pitch, it makes an unmistakable mark. Just don’t try to fly with one.

March 5, 2006

Elusive but essential, the instrument gives its fellow woodwinds a bracing backbone.

June 5, 2005

Think sax and you probably won’t think symphony. But it’s just not ‘Bolero’ without one.

March 13, 2005

They don’t get much respect, as an entire genre of jokes proves. But try building a quartet without one.

Dec. 12, 2004

The curvy instrument requires its player to pack a lot of wind -- the better to produce those sad sounds. And watch out for the razor blades.

Sept. 12, 2004

New music and technology have them taking up a whole new world of noise toys, but L.A. pros agree that one thing hasn’t changed: Accuracy is key.

May 23, 2004

Tuba players may be the Rodney Dangerfields of the orchestra, but the instrument has come a long way since its creation in the 1830s.

Jan. 18, 2004