The tone quality of an orchestra rests on the cooperation of a multitude of differing instruments which are used partly in solo fashion and partly gathered in groups; it is furthermore shaped by the spatial extension of the ensemble and by the influence of room acoustics. Acoustic measurement procedures permit an analysis and description of tonal characteristics of individual instruments in regards to sound power output, spectral composition, time-dependent fine structure, and orientation dependence of sound radiation. Appreciation of the full orchestral sound, on the other hand, requires consideration of sound transit times within the orchestra with the associated problem of playing together, as well as variations in wall reflection times for different instrument positions. The effect of dynamics and masking, the chorus effect and the seating arrangement of the strings , and spectral and time-dependent tone construction will be demonstrated with the assistance of the Weber State University Symphony Orchestra, prepared by its regular conductor, Professor Michael Palumbo. Sound examples are taken largely from the overture to the opera ‘‘Der Freischūtz’’ by Carl Maria von Weber. In conclusion, the orchestra will perform the entire overture directed by Professor Meyer.