Instrument Ranges

This page shows concert pitches in the octaves each instrument or voice is heard. Some of the ranges shown for winds and voices could be argued; you need to consider the performers' expertise and the quality of their instruments (or age of voices).

As always, be careful that you use the correct clef and transposition.

Strings

Here are the string tunings; each string is capable of higher notes.

• Violas are the only instruments that will use alto clef. It is not a tranposition; it is simply a different clef.
• Tenor clef is used for cellos when they have to play really high notes.
• Some basses have a fifth string (C below the low E) but this cannot be guaranteed when writing for orchestra.

Orchestral Woodwinds

For all of these instruments, the very low and very high notes may be more difficult for younger players.

• Piccolos cannot play below D.
• Some flutes have a B extension (or B and B-flat), but this cannot be guaranteed, and the bottom few pitches for the flute may be difficult to play for some.
• The clarinet has several "registers" - parts of the range that have a somewhat different timbre. The most common clarinet is in B-flat.
• High notes for the bassoon may be written in tenor clef.

Saxophones

All saxophone music is written in treble clef, but the ranges can be quite low as you see below; the low notes are shown in bass clef just to make it easier for you to understand the range capabilities of each instrument. The soprano sax is not common.

Brass

As with all winds, the most appropriate high and low notes are dependent on player's expertise.

• Occasionally, the highest notes for trombone are found in tenor clef. The "trombone" is really a tenor trombone, and a bass trombone is not too uncommon.

Timpani

Those big copper Kettle Drums each have a range of P5; most orchestras have four or five timpani. They are identified by the measurement of their head's diameter.

Voices

When writing for a choir, consider the ranges below. Sopranos and tenors may be able to sing below D, but the tone quality may suffer; the same can be said at both ends of vocal ranges. About tenors:

• When tenors have their own staff, use treble clef (and write an octave up). The optional little "8" at the bottom of the clef indicates the octave difference.
• If tenors share a clef with basses, use bass clef and exact concert pitch.

© Tamara Fudge