Which of the following instruments in a chamber orchestra typically provides the harmonic underpinning for other melodic instruments but can carry the principal melody on their own as well?

a. violin

b. viola

c. timpani

d. cello

I believe the correct answer from the choices listed above is option A. The instrument in a chamber orchestra typically provides the harmonic underpinning for other melodic instruments but can carry the principal melody on their own as well would be the violin. Hope this answers the question.