Reorchestration (riːɔːrkɛsˈtreɪʃən) refers to the process of rearranging or modifying a musical composition by changing or adding orchestral parts. The word is derived from the prefix "re-" meaning again or anew, the root word "orchestra" meaning a large ensemble of musicians, and the suffix "-ation" which denotes a process or action. The spelling of "reorchestration" follows typical English phonetic rules, with emphasis on the third syllable and a silent "h". It is a term commonly used in music production and arrangement.
Reorchestration refers to the act or process of rearranging or restructuring the instrumentation or musical arrangement of a composition. It involves making changes to the way in which a piece of music is orchestrated, typically with the goal of presenting it in a new or different way while still maintaining its original essence or character.
In the realm of music, orchestration refers to the art of assigning different musical parts to various instruments or voices. Reorchestration essentially means reassigning these parts, potentially modifying the balance, timbre, or overall sound of the composition. This can include alterations such as changing the instrumentation, revoicing the chords, reassigning melodic lines to different instruments or sections, adjusting dynamics or accents, and making other changes to the musical texture or arrangement.
Reorchestration is frequently undertaken to suit a particular performance context or to bring fresh interpretations to a familiar musical work. It can help breathe new life into a composition, presenting it in a unique way that offers different perspectives or highlights certain aspects of the music. This process can be undertaken by the original composer or by other musicians or arrangers who seek to explore alternative possibilities for the piece. Through reorchestration, composers can imbue their music with renewed vitality, enabling it to resonate with listeners in novel and engaging ways.
The word "reorchestration" is a combination of the prefix "re-" meaning "again" or "back", the root word "orchestration" meaning the arrangement or adaptation of music for an orchestra, and the suffix "-ation" which denotes the process or result of something.
The root word "orchestration" originally comes from the French word "orchestrer" which means "to arrange for an orchestra". This French term was derived from the Latin word "orchestra", which referred to the area in ancient Greek theaters where the chorus and musicians performed. Ultimately, "orchestra" can be traced back to the Greek word "orcheisthai", meaning "to dance".
Therefore, the word "reorchestration" suggests the process of arranging or adapting music for an orchestra once again, or making changes to an existing orchestration.