Music Glossary: orchestration-by-function category

Mix legato vs staccato, arco vs pizz to enhance clarity and motion. more

Low-end support outlining roots/guide-tones; locks with rhythm. more

Phrase marking for winds/strings to avoid simultaneous breaks. more

Antiphonal exchanges between sections; spatial drama. more

Blend timbres (e.g., flute+violin, clarinet+viola) to create hybrid colors. more

Independent lines weaving around melody; balance to avoid masking. more

Balance tutti chords from bottom up; stronger lows, tapered highs. more

Sustained backdrop (strings, pads, choir) supporting harmony and mood. more

Instruments suited for primary melodic line by range/timbre (e.g., violins, flutes, voice). more

Distribute roles across lows/mids/highs to avoid crowding. more

Anchor exposed lines with soft supporting voices to improve perceived tuning. more