how many layers of strings/orchestra should be used???

[jpixels]

I use like a standard orchestra string, something like a secondary string, maybe a brass and some bells and violin, like 4-5 layers

is there any good combinations of instruments one should use?

and where can I learn more about counter-melody etc

 

[deRaNged 4 Phuk'dup]

Orchestrations are an avanced thing. You have to take into consideration each section and the different styles that need to be covered. Just your violin section can include Stacs, legato, and drawn out background strings. Then you still need to add accenuations, bass, pizzes, it can get crazy, but each ensemble is different.

So you can use anything from 1 track to 200,000 depending on what mood ou're trying to capture. on average I use 2-5 track for each instrument/section I cover. Sorry, I'm tired and buzzing now, I'm subscribing, and will explain in more detail after sleeping off these beers.