Instrument Families

Instrument Families

Instrument Families

• How we classify (sort) instruments

• We are learning just ONE system of families based on orchestra instruments

We classify instruments based on how they make sound

The String Family

Fun fact: People have played instruments from the string family for more than 3,000 years!

Sound is produced through vibrating strings

00:30

01:00

Get these items:

03:00

• 2 or 3 rubber bands of different sizes (check your STEM kit!)

• 2 boxes/open tupperware containers of different sizes (try to use the same material)

• 2 pencils or dowels

Watch me!

How the strings change the sound

Length - Longer strings vibrate slower and make lower sounding notes than shorter strings. Weight - Heavy, thick strings make lower notes than lighter thin strings. Tightness - A tight string makes a higher note than a loose string.

3 ways to make the strings vibrate

• Bow
• Pluck
• Strike

Pipa

• This instrument is from China

• You play it by plucking

Hammered Dulcimer

• Played with hammers

• Used all over the world

Sitar

• This instrument is from India

Ukulele

• This instrument is from Hawai'i.

• Ukuleles come in different sizes; the ukulele in the video is bigger than the one you will get.

Guitar

You know this one!