An orchestra is an instrumental ensemble, usually fairly large with proportionate groups of similar musical instruments such as string, brass, woodwind sections, and possibly a percussion section as well. The term “orchestra” derives from the name for the area in front of an ancient Greek stage reserved for the Greek chorus.
The most frequently performed repertoire for a symphony orchestra is Western classical music or opera. However, orchestras are sometimes used in popular music, and are used extensively in film music.
