It can be difficult for those that aren't well versed in music to understand the main differences between a band and an orchestra. Both play music, are led by a director and perform in concerts. However, the differences between a band and an orchestra have nothing to do with these things. Find out what they are in the following OneHowTo article .
A music band is a group of musicians playing mainly wind instruments. In fact, it comprises of only these instruments, both brass wind and woodwind instruments.
An orchestra has a much wider variety of instruments. Wind and string instruments are played side by side in an orchestra, with the latter taking a more prominent role.
If a band has strings, it is a symphonic band. String instruments in a symphonic band include the cello and bass, although the piano and harp could also make an appearance, though this is less common.
An orchestra, on the other hand,consists of instruments from all families. That is, string, wind and wood. The strings are more center stage, with the violin taking the limelight.
A music band can be converted into symphonic Band. That is, it could have a similar structure to that of an orchestra, but not an identical structure. When a cello and a double bass are incorporated in the band, it's a symphonic band.
There are also similarities between an orchestra and a band. For example, they both play classical music mainly, though bands will usually interpret marches or even jazz pieces, whilst orchestras will play symphonic pieces. There is also a type of orchestra that plays jazz music, though it is known as a Big Band. It is considered an orchestra instead of a band as it also includes guitar, drums, piano and bass.
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