What is a musical ensemble? A grouping of three or more musicians who are performing together is usually considered a musical ensemble; however, musical ensembles vary by size and instrumental makeup. Musical ensembles that are comprised of two musicians are considered a 'duet;' in groups of three, a trio; if there are four performing musicians; they're considered a quartet, and so on.

An example of a small musical ensemble is one that comes together to play chamber music. This particular musical ensemble is commonly known as a quartet or 'string quartet;' and usually includes musicians who play a viola, violins and a violoncello.

When many instruments come together in a musical ensemble, it is referred to as an orchestra. The difference between an orchestra musical ensemble and a symphony orchestra is that there are usually over a hundred musicians in a symphony and it is often sectioned off by each group of instruments.

Other forms of musical ensemble include the wind ensemble, mainly comprised of percussion and wind instruments; string orchestras, which are only comprised of string instruments; and vocal musical ensembles, are considered choirs. Additionally, there are specialty musical ensembles that play specific music such as military or pop, these ensembles are known as bands.

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