Arranging and Orchestration Concepts !! 119Example 6-22 Double bass range: staff indicates where the parts are written.The double bass, also referred to as an acoustic bass, is rarely used in
pop music but is popular in jazz. Therefore, when a budget allows for only
a small string section, the double bass is usually one of the first instru-
ments to be eliminated. (Electric bass is usually the instrument of choice
in commercial music.)
The string section consists of instruments that can play in very high
registers (violins) to very low registers (double basses). This offers com-
posers and arrangers a wide variety of tonal colors.
When writing an arrangement, the arranger might feel that the
arrangement needs a ‘‘boost,’’ which can be accomplished by building the
string arrangement. For example, an arrangement could start with low
strings and then add violas followed by violins. Creative string arranging
is one of the most valuable skills of an arranger. (Because popular music
tracks are usually recorded in sections, a band might arrange the rhythm
track and hire an arranger to write a string arrangement.)
In a symphony orchestra, a large number of strings are needed to cre-
ate a full, rich sound. This can be accomplished with fewer musicians in
the studio by using a technique called overdubbing. Overdubbing means
to record the same parts multiple times on additional tracks. (This is not
always viable because of budget restrictions.)
If the number of musicians is limited, it is advisable for an arranger
not to write the violin parts too high. Without a substantial number of vio-
linists (at least eight playing in unison), the parts will sound very thin. By
writing in lower registers and having all members of that section playing
the same part, the section sounds richer. An experienced engineer can help
generate a rich sound. Using the proper microphones and knowing how
to position them is a major factor in the resulting sound.
Arrangers generally choose the instruments needed in the string sec-
tion; the choices are based on the budget and the sound of a particular
arrangement. For instance, only violins might be needed; four violas and
two celli may accomplish the intended sound. Through experience, studio
arrangers are able to select the proper string instruments that will sound
best for a recording session.
Harp
The harp is an unusual instrument. It is plucked and has strings, pedals,
and more than seven octaves. No other orchestral instrument can create