Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov · section 55 of 100

C. Combination of the three groups

The combination of strings, wood-wind and brass instruments, set side by side, produces a full, round and firm tone.

Examples:

No. 172. The Tsar's Bride, before 145—Ob., Fag. + Horns + Strings.

"""final chord (cf. Table I of chords, Ex. 5).

* No. 173. Sadko, end of 1st tableau—short chords. Last chords of the 1st, 3rd and 7th tableaux (cf. Table I and III, Vol. II, Ex. 9, 10, 18).

* No. 174. The Christmas Night 22—Wind + Brass c. sord. + tremolo strings.

Legend of Kitesh 162 (cf. Ex. 250).

Snegourotchka—end of opera, (cf. Table III in Vol. II, Ex. 17) and a host of other examples.

General Observations. Balance and correct distribution of tone is much more important in dealing with long sustained chords or those of rhythmic design; in the case of short, disconnected chords resonance is a minor consideration, but one which should not be entirely neglected.

I have endeavoured to outline the general principles to be followed, but I do not profess to deal with all the countless cases which may arise in the course of orchestration. I have given a few examples of well-sounding chords; for further information I advise the reader to study full scores with care, as this is the only method to acquire perfect knowledge of the distribution and doubling of various instruments.