Which term denotes the act of dividing a section into two or more parts to play different notes?

• A. Tempo
• B. Divisi
• C. Mezzo piano
• D. Pizzicato

Answer: (B)

Divisi is the marking used when a section is split into separate lines so different notes can be played at the same time. In a string section, for example, the players might divide into two groups: one group plays the upper melodic line while the other plays a lower line. This lets the ensemble create harmony or counterpoint within a single section without everyone playing the same pitches. You’ll often see divisi written as divisi or div., sometimes with an indication like a2 to show how many players should take each line, and it’s followed by unison when the players resume playing the same notes together.

Tempo tells you how fast or slow to play, mezzo piano means moderately soft, and pizzicato means plucking the strings instead of bowing. Those terms describe speed or articulation or how the music is produced, not whether a section should split to play different notes.