Recording Orchestra and Other Classical Music Ensembles

9

Recording Harp, Piano, Celeste, and Organ

These instruments end up in many different positions within the orchestra—and their placement is usually determined by where they fit on stage, or in most cases for organ, where it happens to be installed. This lack of standard placement can lead to issues with sight lines between the various players and the conductor, physical comfort of the musicians, and how well the instruments balance naturally with the rest of the orchestra. Piano and celeste are quite often categorized as part of the percussion section, although they aren’t necessarily positioned with the percussion instruments on stage. Some helpful advice on how to deal with these instruments is presented in this chapter.

9.1 Harp

Throughout ...