The group of instruments accompanying a solo singer in an opera is known collectively as the basso continuo.
I think it was the lyre. It was the first string instrument according to Greek myths. Hermès gave it to Apollo to stop him from killing Hermès because he stole Apollo’s sacred cow. I don’t know. It’s just a myth but I hope this helps:)))
Depends on the music. The most popular ones include timpani, triangle, cymbals, snare drum, bass drum
