Orkester

Orkester is the term used in Norwegian, Swedish, Danish and several other languages for a group of musicians who perform instrumental music together. An orkester typically comprises strings, woodwinds, brass and percussion, and may include keyboard and other instruments. It is usually led by a conductor, with a concertmaster acting as lead violinist and liaison between players and conductor. The term originates from Italian orchestra, itself from Greek orkhēstra meaning a place for dancing and later applied to the performing ensemble.

As a performing unit, an orkester may range from a chamber orchestra of around 15-40 players to a full symphony orchestra of 70-100 or more. Repertoire spans Baroque to contemporary works, including symphonies, concertos, ballet and opera orchestrations, and film scores.

Historically, orchestral ensembles emerged in 17th-century Europe, with developments in Venice, Vienna, London, and Paris. Through the 18th and 19th centuries, orchestras organized regular symphonic seasons and concerts, many supported by patronage, municipalities, or public funding. In modern times, orchestras are found worldwide in concert halls, festival stages, and recording studios; they engage in education and community outreach, and frequently collaborate with guest conductors and soloists.