Strings
Leader
The leader is the principal musician in the 1st violin section and is the head of the orchestra within the orchestra. When entering the hall, the leader acknowledges the audience on behalf of the orchestra. The leader watches the conductor for the tempo, leads the 1st violins and keeps the orchestra together. The leader works with the other section leaders, or principals, and if there are any violin solos in the work being performed, the leader plays them. Leaders have to be competent soloists as well as sensitive ensemble players.
Principal
Every section in the orchestra has a principal, or section leader, who is responsible for the uniform sound of the section and for playing solos and cueing entrances. Principals must carefully follow the information given by the conductor. Principals instruct their sections about technical details; in the strings, this involves things like vibrato and bowing. Principals work closely with the leader and each other.Äänenjohtajat
Tutti player
Tutti players in the 1st violins, 2st violins, violas, cellos and double basses perform the music in accordance with the information given by the composer, the conductor and the leader. Dozens of musicians work together to create a unified musical expression within the parameters given. This requires excellent technique and ensemble playing ability.Tuttisoittaja