Educational Events

The symphony orchestra is the most advanced musical machine ever created by humans. There is no other construct with such a wealth of timbres and sounds, creating a full palette of moods and emotions. It is a vast ensemble, where nearly a hundred people start playing at exactly the same moment, synchronously slowing down and speeding up. Despite its size, it offers considerable interpretative freedom and can sound completely different depending on the conductor and their vision. How is this possible? Who ensures that the orchestra sounds pure? Can it perform without a conductor?

 

You will find answers to these and other questions at our educational concerts titled *Orchestral ABC*, part of the *Sunday Mornings* series. We will explain the instruments, demonstrate their various solo and ensemble sounds, and share interesting facts about working in such a large group. This is a unique opportunity to see and hear instruments that are usually hidden in the orchestra, as well as to talk with the artists who make up the Grand Theatre Orchestra in Łódź.

 

The series will kick off with the instrumentalists of the largest group of stringed instruments: the violinists and violists. Violins, especially the first violins, are very busy in the orchestra. They form the foundation of the orchestra’s sound. But violins and violas are not only found in symphony orchestras; they also perform successfully in chamber ensembles and even as soloists. Electric violins have also emerged and have made a significant impact on popular music. Is it difficult to play the violin and viola? Why do musicians need a chin rest, and does each instrument have a soul? You will learn these and many more details at our *Orchestral ABC* concert.