Recording a Symphony Orchestra: Full Ensemble vs. Sectional Recording
- David Hernando Rico
- Jun 11
- 2 min read
Nowadays, given the vast technical possibilities at our disposal, we are presented with numerous alternatives when recording a symphony orchestra, especially in the field of music for audiovisual media.
The Sections of a Symphony Orchestra
A symphony orchestra is primarily divided into the following sections:
Strings
Woodwinds
Brass
Percussion
Other instruments: Harp, piano, celesta, organ, etc.
How Does a Symphony Orchestra Play?
A symphony orchestra is a complex organism that works in unison. For instance, tuning is relative rather than absolute; each musician must constantly adapt to the intonation of their colleagues, the soloists, and the rest of the ensemble. The same applies to rhythm and timing. For this reason, while recording in sections can be advantageous for mixing purposes or the specific application of the music, it is undoubtedly best to record the orchestra playing together whenever possible.
When Is It Best to Record in Sections?
The decision to record in sections depends solely on the final use of the music and certain technical considerations, such as:
The need to use each section independently in the final production.
Uncertainty about whether a specific musical block will ultimately layer well with another section.
Mixing requirements—for example, when a powerful brass sound is needed, which might otherwise bleed into and drown out other instruments.
Is Sectional Recording More Technically Complex?
Yes, it is more complex, as it requires a higher track count and more powerful equipment.
Note: Sectional recording demands extensive expertise from the recording engineer. Furthermore, when layering multiple tracks, it is crucial that the recording chain—microphones, preamplifiers, and converters—is in pristine condition and of the highest quality.
Is It Difficult for the Orchestra to Record in Sections?
Recording in sections requires musicians who are highly experienced in playing to a click-track while simultaneously monitoring pre-recorded material and delivering an expressive performance.
When tracking any individual section, flawless rhythmic precision and perfect intonation are essential. Because of this, years of specialized experience are required—which is precisely what sets the Bratislava Symphony Orchestra apart.
Is It More Expensive?
Yes, it is more financially demanding. Recording sections individually requires significantly more studio time, extended hours for the engineering team, and prolonged conducting sessions.
When Mixed Together, Does it Sound the Same as a Full Orchestra Playing Live?
If recorded, edited, and mixed properly, the final result sounds virtually identical to an orchestra recorded playing all together in the same room.
Recording a Choir: Is It Better Separately or with the Orchestra?
Except for live concert works written specifically for choir and orchestra, it is generally better to record the choir separately for all other projects, including film scores, pop music, and video games.
The Bratislava Symphony Orchestra: Specialists in Sectional Recording
If your project requires sectional recording, the BSO is undoubtedly the premier choice, given our vast experience in this specialized field. We have successfully recorded numerous video game soundtracks using this method, as well as entire pop albums (such as projects for Il Divo).
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