An orchestral sound-matching cheat sheet is a really valuable tool when creating orchestral mockups because it acts like a quick-reference guide to the real orchestra!

When working with sample libraries or virtual instruments, it’s easy to forget how instruments actually behave and interact in live performance. This cheat sheet helps you bridge that gap by reminding you of which other instruments to pair with, to get a better, more realistic and professional sounding result!

Essentially, the cheat sheet saves time and improves realism. Instead of guessing or digging through orchestration textbooks mid-session, you have an at-a-glance reminder of how real orchestras sound and can be orchestrated. This leads to mockups that feel less like “MIDI instruments stacked together” and more like an authentic orchestral performance.