Throughout Otello, the orchestra plays a significant role in aiding the expression of emotion. To convey the storm in the opening scene, the orchestra plays at a very high volume.  Although not present throughout the entire play, the organ makes an appearance here. Organs are powerful instruments that tend to add dark vibes to a piece of music.

Throughout the majority of the Opera, the brass instruments, in particular the trombone, were extremely noticeable. They remained active throughout the entire piece, and did not blend in with the other instruments. Brass instruments typically are louder and more direct than other instruments like strings. They are used to play a part that doesn’t require as much precision. During the beginning, they seemed to play in conjunction with Othello, demonstrating his power. However, as Othello fell, so did these powerful instruments that act as if they have supported him.

In Act 1, it is interesting how there was a very subtle switch from oboe and clarinet to english horn and bass clarinet. These instruments essentially took over the role of the previous two. However, the english horn and bass clarinet are much darker instruments that play lower registers, signifying a change from a semi-positive to a more disturbed feeling.

Following the intermission, Act 3 was vastly different than the previous 2 acts. As Iago’s plot continued to unfold, the Orchestra created suspense with variable dynamic levels and tempos. There were parts that were reminiscent of Beethoven’s 5th symphony.

The Opera closes with a beautiful, soft piece. Each member of the orchestra striving to play as low as they possibly could, pulsing like “the last breaths of a dying being,” mimicking the end of Othello.