In ensemble markings, which indicates two players should play the notes in unison?

• A. With the Bow
• B. In Octave Doubling
• C. Unison for Both Players
• D. Play Two Independent Lines

Answer: (C)

When players are asked to play in unison, the instruction is to produce the same notes at the same time, creating a single, unified line. This is exactly what “Unison for Both Players” means: both players—often sharing the same part or line—should hit the same pitch, move together rhythmically, and start together. It gives the ensemble a stronger, cohesive sound by reinforcing the melody rather than adding a second, offset line.

In contrast, octave doubling would have the two players sounding the same melody but pitched an octave apart, which thickens the texture without true unison. Playing two independent lines means each player renders a different melodic line, which is the opposite of unison. And “With the Bow” is a technique direction about how to bow, not about pitch or alignment of parts.