The brass band’s instruments are usually produced from metal or wood, which makes them durable and able to withstand the rigours of performance. These instruments are played by bands and as a general rule sound better when played together. We all know that a brass band is a musical ensemble. what we also know is that it is comprised almost entirely of a standard range of brass instruments, but sometimes it can contain other instruments as well.
What Instruments Generally Make Up A Brass Band?
Despite its name, a brass band can include apart from brass instruments, percussion as well. A brass band is a combination of three or more different instruments and choosing the right type of instrument for the band to match the ensemble is essential.
The Flugelhorn
The flugelhorn is the only solo instrument in the brass band. It provides a harmonic link between the cornets and horns and can also be used together with the trombones. A flute has a larger bore than a cornet, so players should have stamina and be able to sustain long periods of playing. The flugelhorn is a type of horn similar to a trumpet. Its B-flat pitch makes it a versatile instrument, and it is often used as a counter melody or solo instrument. It is the most expensive of all brass band instruments, and it has the most range of any instrument in a brass band.
The Cornet
The solo cornet serves as the main melodic line in a brass band, with the solo cornet played by four or five members. The principal solo cornet is the strongest player in the group and serves as the orchestra’s leader. A bumper sits next to the principal in a tutti section to allow the principal player to rest. A bumper will also play during a tutti section, so the principal solo player can relax. The soprano cornet is known as the highest instrument in a brass band and is the only one that can play the note of G.
The Trumpet
The trumpet is the most popular instrument in a brass band and is played with a buzzing action. The bass trumpet is the smallest of the three and is usually played by a single player. The trumpet is often mistakenly referred to as the cornet, but it is actually the lowest instrument in the family. The bass cornet is another popular type of tuba.
The Tenor Horn
The tenor horn is the lowest brass band instrument, which sits in the middle of the band and is used for accompaniment and solos. The tenor horn’s bore is conical, while the euphonium has a flat bore. It aims to blend the sound before it reaches the audience, making it the perfect choice for accompanying a band. The tenor horn is commonly used as a percussion instrument.
Final Words
While there are many benefits of joining a brass band, many people do not know that it can negatively affect their health. In fact, the health effects of playing brass band instruments are not a complete mystery. The positive and negative aspects of brass bands are equally balanced. In a 2012 study, Livesey et al. reported that the negative effects of playing a brass band might be more common than positive.