What is special about the double bass compared to all other string instruments? What is the difference between a xylophone and a glockenspiel? How long is the tubing that makes up a trumpet? And what is the name of the world's oldest surviving violin? All of these questions and more are answered in this introductory guide to the instruments featured in the modern symphony orchestra. With sections covering strings, brass, woodwind, percussion and keyboard instruments, as well as additional information about the history and structure of the orchestra, this is a fascinating book for children and adults alike.
