Where is the percussion instruments located and why?

Answer 1

I may not be 100% accurate on this but I believe I have a pretty good idea. In an ensemble setting, the idea is to provide the best balance possible. That is why more powerful instruments, like the brass, specifically the trombones and tubas are in the back of the ensemble and the flutes and piccolos will be in the front. It would be very imbalanced if it were reversed. Typically the percussion instruments will be placed in the back of an ensemble or orchestra. These instruments are typically very assertive and powerful. Like a bass drum that is very bold and loud or a snare drum that is very sharp and penetrating. Also, percussionists typically stand up when they are playing, unlike the majority of the band. Just about every instrument group will be sitting, except maybe the upright bass players of an orchestra. This makes the placement common sense, because you don't want them to be standing in the front of the band blocking the view of other musicians.

Answer 2

If by this you mean, where can you buy them, then I'd say you can find them at almost any music store. Certain instruments, though, you may have to order online, like the mallet percussion instruments.

Answer 3

The sound of the percussion instruments will "cut through" the orchestral mass in front of it in loud passages, and can still be heard in balance when the percussion instruments are playing softly (generally when the rest of the orchestra is playing softly, too).