The largest stringed instrument in a classical orchestra is the double bass. It stands taller than the other string instruments like the violin, viola, and cello, and is typically played in an upright position.
The double bass has a deep, rich sound that provides the foundation for the harmony and rhythm in orchestral music. Its large size allows it to produce lower pitches, which adds depth to the overall sound of the orchestra.
While the double bass typically plays in the bass clef, it can also be notated in the tenor clef in some higher passages. Musicians use a bow or pluck the strings to create sound, and it often plays a crucial role in providing support in orchestral arrangements, making it an indispensable member of the string section.