Unison

As Printed on a Score

In English-language scores, especially choral music and hymnals, “Unison” over a passage tells divided voices to sing one line together. Orchestral scores print the Italian “unis.” or “unisono” after a divisi; two wind players sharing a staff show unison with one note carrying two stems, or with “a 2”.

How Composers Use It

Unison passages have maximum force and clarity — there is no harmony, just a single concentrated line. Use unison for powerful thematic statements, dramatic openings, or moments when you want the entire ensemble focused on one idea. Octave unisons add weight while maintaining the single-line effect.

Example

Beethoven, Symphony No. 5, opening: the four-note motif is played by the strings and clarinets alone, in unison and octaves — no harmony at all — so the whole idea arrives as one concentrated line.

Related Terms