The lead violin.
The principal first violin is called the 'concertmaster' or first violin. He/she is the leader of the string section and the second in command of the entire orchestra, behind only the conductor. Normally sits to the left of the conductor in the string section.
Conductor
The first chair 'cello sits to the right of the conductor.
The question should be : What instrument is closest to the conductor in an orchestra? I assume the question refers to a symphonic (philharmonic) orchestra. The answer is that two instruments are closer to the conductor: the first violin (principal of the first violins) on the left, and most of the time, the first cello on the right. I say most of the time, because orchestras are usually put in a layout with the first violins on the left and the cellos on the right. However some orchestras use the distribution of first violins on the left and second violins on the right. In this case the closes instruments would be the first violin (1st violins principal) and the principal of the second violins.
a baton
The principal first violin is called the 'concertmaster' or first violin. He/she is the leader of the string section and the second in command of the entire orchestra, behind only the conductor. Normally sits to the left of the conductor in the string section.
In normal situations, the harpist will be at about 10 o'clock to the conductor. Of course, if the harp is a solo instrument, it will be placed in front of the orchestra. See the general seating chart in the link below:
No, it's the conductor/composer.
Conductor
Conductor
The first chair 'cello sits to the right of the conductor.
The question should be : What instrument is closest to the conductor in an orchestra? I assume the question refers to a symphonic (philharmonic) orchestra. The answer is that two instruments are closer to the conductor: the first violin (principal of the first violins) on the left, and most of the time, the first cello on the right. I say most of the time, because orchestras are usually put in a layout with the first violins on the left and the cellos on the right. However some orchestras use the distribution of first violins on the left and second violins on the right. In this case the closes instruments would be the first violin (1st violins principal) and the principal of the second violins.
A baton
a baton
In Christian theology, the "right hand of God" is a position of favor and honor. The Bible doesn't mention who specifically sits on the left hand of God. It is generally understood to symbolize an important position of power and authority.
A baton? His/her musicality and common sense?
Rene Meulensteen