- Strings: Violins, violas, cellos, and double basses are all commonly used in musical theater orchestras. They provide a rich and versatile sound that can be used to support the singers and create a variety of moods and atmospheres.
- Woodwinds: Clarinets, flutes, oboes, bassoons, and saxophones are all commonly used woodwind instruments in musical theater. They provide a variety of colors and textures to the orchestra's sound.
- Brass: Trumpets, trombones, French horns, and tubas are all commonly used brass instruments in musical theater. They provide a strong and powerful sound that can be used to add excitement and energy to the music.
- Percussion: Drums, cymbals, gongs, and other percussion instruments are all commonly used in musical theater. They provide rhythm and accents to the music and can help to create a sense of drama and excitement.
- Keyboard instruments: Pianos, synthesizers, and keyboard synthesizers are all commonly used keyboard instruments in musical theater. They can provide a variety of sounds and textures to the orchestra's sound and can be used to create specific atmospheres or soundscapes.
In addition to these instruments, some musical theater productions may also feature other instruments such as guitars, electric bass, harmonica, accordion, or any other instrument that the composer or musical director deems appropriate for the specific show.