Small Orchestra (Chamber Orchestra):
A small orchestra may have a setup of 2 to 4 kettle drums.
Standard Symphony Orchestra:
A standard symphony orchestra typically has a set of 4 to 6 kettle drums. This allows for greater flexibility and variety in terms of tuning and timbre.
Large Symphony Orchestra:
In larger symphony orchestras, the number of kettle drums can increase to 8 or even more. This expanded setup enables even greater versatility in terms of tuning, dynamics, and orchestral effects.
The specific requirements for kettle drums in an orchestra depend on the repertoire and preferences of the conductor and orchestra.
It's worth noting that some contemporary compositions or experimental setups may deviate from these typical ranges, but the numbers mentioned above are generally indicative of what's commonly encountered in orchestras.