In this video, I break down how to structure a traditional orchestra template the right way – from woodwinds and brass to percussion, choir, and strings – following real conductor score order.

You’ll learn standard orchestral track layout, accepted section colours (with hex/RGB guidance for Reaper), divisi string setup, and how to organise your template so any composer can instantly understand your session. Perfect for film composers, media composers, and anyone building an orchestral template in Reaper or any DAW.

For a deeper guide on a much simpler and easy to use orchestral template, check out my article right here Composing In Reaper using MIDI Note Channels

Standard(ish) track colours used in orchestral templates (or, at least very good starting points):

Woodwinds (Blue)

  • Hex 21618C
  • Darker option 1E8449
  • Reaper RGB: 33, 97, 140

Brass (Gold)

  • Hex F4D03F
  • Reaper RGB: 244, 208, 63

Percussion (Red)

  • Hex 922B21
  • Reaper RGB: 146, 43, 33

Keys and Harp (Purple)

  • Hex 6C3483
  • Reaper RGB: 108, 52, 131

Choir (Teal)

  • Hex1ABC9C
  • Reaper RGB: 26, 188, 156

Synths (Orange)

  • Hex E67E22
  • Reaper RGB: 230, 126, 34

Strings (Green):

  • Hex 2ECC71
  • Darker option 1E8449
  • Reaper RGB: 46, 204, 113