A general understanding of the instruments of the orchestra is required for ABRSM Music theory grades 4 and 5, (and also the advanced grades). However, even if you aren’t studying for an exam a basic understanding of orchestral instruments is beneficial to your own performance, whatever instrument you play. It may be that you are playing an arrangement of a piece of music and understanding the general characteristics of the instrument that the music was originally written for is extremely beneficial. In order to prevent this being a dry exercise of abstract revision, I give a quick, whistle-stop tour of the main instruments of the orchestra (with illustrations) and chat away with personal anecdotes. It’s an engaging topic and I hope that I share my love of all things musical as you hopefully learn something along the way.