Music Term
What is tutti?
Definition
Tutti (Italian for 'all') is a direction indicating that all performers in an ensemble should play together -- the full orchestra, choir, or band sounding simultaneously.
Tutti in music -- explained
In classical music, tutti is used as both a direction and a structural term. It contrasts with solo (a single instrument or voice) and divisi (sections playing different parts). In concerto form, the tutti sections are played by the full orchestra, alternating with solo sections where the featured instrument plays against a reduced accompaniment. The tutti is typically the loudest, fullest-textured moment in an orchestral work -- the full force of the ensemble deployed together. In choral music, tutti indicates all voices singing (contrasted with ensemble or smaller group passages). In jazz and pop ensemble contexts, the equivalent is simply the full band playing together -- all horns in a big band riffing simultaneously in a shout chorus, for instance. In electronic music and rock, the concept applies when all instrumental tracks sound simultaneously at maximum energy -- what producers sometimes call a 'full mix' moment.
Notable examples of tutti
Beethoven's Ninth Symphony (Finale) -- Ludwig van Beethoven
The finale's choral tutti passages with full orchestra and four soloists represent the fullest texture in the classical canon.
Sing Sing Sing -- Benny Goodman
Gene Krupa's extended drum solo breaks from the tutti passages where the full swing orchestra plays together at maximum energy.
Good Day Sunshine -- The Beatles
The backing vocal tutti in the chorus -- all voices in unison -- is a simple but effective example of pop ensemble ensemble writing.
Related music terms
Frequently asked questions
- What is tutti in music?
- Tutti (Italian for 'all') is a direction indicating that all performers in an ensemble should play together -- the full orchestra, choir, or band sounding simultaneously.
- What is an example of tutti?
- A well-known example is Beethoven's Ninth Symphony (Finale) by Ludwig van Beethoven: The finale's choral tutti passages with full orchestra and four soloists represent the fullest texture in the classical canon.
- How is tutti used in music?
- In classical music, tutti is used as both a direction and a structural term. It contrasts with solo (a single instrument or voice) and divisi (sections playing different parts).
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