Orchestral Sample: Free Symphonic Sounds for Every Creator

Orchestral samples bring the expressive power of a full symphony into your creative workspace. From sweeping string sections to cinematic brass and delicate woodwinds, they allow musicians, composers, and producers to access the sonic universe of orchestral music — without needing a concert hall or an expensive setup.

At Infinity Audio®, we believe that access to high-quality sounds should be democratic, not exclusive. That’s why this guide focuses on the best free orchestral sample libraries, while still highlighting a few outstanding commercial options for those seeking specific features or extended depth.

What Is an Orchestral Sample?
An orchestral sample is a recording of real orchestral instruments — strings, brass, woodwinds, percussion — playing specific notes, articulations, or phrases. These samples are organized into virtual instruments or libraries that you can play using a MIDI controller and a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation).

The best samples are recorded in world-class studios or concert halls, with multiple mic positions, dynamics, and playing techniques, offering a realistic, expressive experience.

The Best Free Orchestral Sample Libraries (2025 Edition)
Here are some of the most inspiring and accessible orchestral libraries available for free:

• Spitfire Audio LABS – Strings, Brass, Choirs
  Beautifully recorded instruments with a minimalist interface. Constantly expanding.
  ➤ https://labs.spitfireaudio.com/
  

• VSCO Community Edition
  A versatile and well-rounded orchestral toolkit that includes solo and ensemble instruments.
  ➤ https://vis.versilstudios.com/vsco-community.html
  

• ProjectSAM – The Free Orchestra 2
  A cinematic collection of orchestral textures, pulses, and hybrid ensembles.
  ➤ https://projectsam.com/libraries/the-free-orchestra-2/

• Sonatina Symphonic Orchestra
  A foundational orchestral set — less detailed, but extremely lightweight and easy to use.
  ➤ https://github.com/peastman/sso

• Layers by Orchestral Tools
  Offers lush, pre-orchestrated ensembles in a single patch. Great for quick sketches.
  ➤ https://www.orchestraltools.com/store/collections/layers

• BBC Symphony Orchestra Discover (Free Edition)
  A compact yet powerful free version of Spitfire’s BBC orchestra library. Requires registration.
  ➤ https://www.spitfireaudio.com/bbcso/discover/
  

• Free Kontakt Libraries by Alexander Koops
  A lesser-known but wonderful collection of orchestral sounds built in Kontakt format.
  ➤ https://sites.google.com/site/alexanderkoops/compositions/free-kontakt-library

Bonus Tip: Some paid libraries offer time-limited free versions or “lite” samplers. Always keep an eye on companies like Audio Imperia, Cinematic Studio Series, or Heavyocity — they occasionally release demo libraries worth grabbing.

When Commercial Libraries Are Worth It
If you’re working on professional film scores, AAA games, or orchestral mockups where detailed expression, mic placement, and layering are essential, then a few commercial libraries might be worth the investment. The very best in the field include:

• Spitfire Audio – BBC Symphony Orchestra Core / Pro
  ➤ https://www.spitfireaudio.com/

• Orchestral Tools – Berlin Series
  ➤ https://www.orchestraltools.com/

• EastWest Hollywood Orchestra
  ➤ https://www.soundsonline.com/

• Vienna Symphonic Library

  ➤ https://www.vsl.co.at/

These libraries are deeply sampled and designed for nuanced control, but they are not essential for every creator — especially when so many free alternatives exist.

Using Orchestral Samples in ONE Instrument®
With ONE Instrument®, you can load, organize, and perform your orchestral samples in a streamlined, creative environment. Whether you’re layering strings with pads, triggering custom orchestral textures, or previewing different libraries in real time, ONE Instrument® helps you focus on the sound — not the setup.

It’s perfect for:

• Managing your favorite free orchestral VSTs or AU plugins

• Layering orchestral samples with synths, FX, or custom patches

• Recording ideas instantly with the built-in recorder

• Creating hybrid orchestral scores with zero friction

For many creators, the real innovation lies in combining traditional sounds with modern workflows. And that’s where ONE Instrument® shines.