Divisi

As Printed on a Score

Printed over a string part as “div.” where the section splits onto two or more lines — notes stacked on one staff or separate staves — and “div. a 3” for three groups. It lasts until “unis.” or “non div.” brings the players back together. Chords printed without div. are usually meant as double stops for every player, so the marking changes the meaning.

Abbreviations: div., div

How Composers Use It

Divisi halves the number of players on each note, so the tone is thinner. Use divisi for chords, double stops that are too difficult, or passages needing transparent texture. Mark "unisi" or "unis." to return to unison. Remember: divisi a 3 means only a third of the section on each note.

Example

Tchaikovsky, Symphony No. 6 (“Pathétique”), third movement, first violins, m. 212: “div.” at ff, cancelled by “unis.” two bars later as the dynamic rises to fff.

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