Acoustic and MIDI Orchestration for the Contemporary Composer, 2nd Edition

5 Writing and Sequencing for the Brass Section

 

 

 

5.1 General Characteristics

Brass instruments are best known for producing a powerful and regal tone quality. In comparison to the lighter string and woodwind sections, they are unmatched in this ability, but they are also capable of creating a warm and lush tone quality that can blend somewhat with lighter instruments. In general, the brass should be respected with regard to their endurance. The physical exertion is greatest with this group of instruments in contrast to the less taxing woodwind and strings. Consequently, it is wise for the music arranger to avoid overusing the brass. An abundance of whole notes or any extended legato passages is very difficult to sustain physically as ...