ORCHESTRA PIT

:''For a type of orchestra, see pit orchestra''.

An 'orchestra pit' is the usually lowered area (hence ''pit'') in front of and/or underneath a stage where a pit orchestra accompanies performers in a musical, opera, or other type of show involving music. In some cases, part or all of the pit is on a mechanical lift which can raise the floor to the level of the stage deck. This allows for easier movement of instruments among other things. Often an orchestra pit will be equipped with a removable ''pit cover'' which provides safety by eliminating the steep drop off and also increases the available acting area above. In most cases, some sort of lattice or sound port is built into the front of the orchestra pit, to allow audience members in the front rows to hear the music while still having a wall to keep them separated from the orchestra.
In other forms of performing band, the pit is also short for ''pitch percussion''; usually keyboard-percussion instruments such as the xylophone, vibraphone, and marimba.