Which instrument set is listed as being potentially included in a concert band of 90-120 performers?

• A. The string bass, piccolo, English horn, harp, bass trombone, contrabassoon, and/or a saxophone.
• B. A string quartet and a grand piano for color.
• C. Only woodwinds and brass with no strings.
• D. Violin I and II plus a harp.

Answer: (A)

In a concert band sized for 90–120 performers, directors often expand beyond the basic woodwinds, brass, and percussion to include color instruments that enhance timbre and range. The set listed covers a wide palette: piccolo adds a bright, piercing top line; English horn contributes a distinctive, mellower alto oboe color; string bass provides an extra low register beyond the standard bass range; harp introduces shimmering, delicate textures; bass trombone strengthens the low brass, while contrabassoon deepens the bass woodwind sonority; and a saxophone adds another distinct voice to blend with the woodwinds and brass. This combination reflects the flexible, color-rich approach commonly used in large bands to accommodate varied repertoire and balance.

The other options describe configurations that don’t align with how a large wind band is typically staffed. A chamber set like a string quartet with a grand piano is far more suited to small-scale repertoire. A lineup with only woodwinds and brass and no strings could be possible, but it doesn’t illustrate the kind of diverse color instruments a large band might intentionally include. A string-focused setup with violins and harp would skew toward a string ensemble rather than a wind band, which isn’t representative of the usual large-band instrumentation.