Which term describes a passage/piece performed by a single instrument?

• A. Arco
• B. Staccato
• C. Solo
• D. Polacca

Answer: (C)

A solo describes a passage performed by a single instrument. It’s the moment in a piece where one musician takes the spotlight, either within an orchestral texture or a concerto, with the rest providing accompaniment or staying quiet. This focus on one instrument’s sound and technique is what defines the passage as a solo.

Arco is a bowing direction for string players, indicating how the notes are produced rather than who plays. Staccato marks notes to be played short and detached, relating to articulation rather than the number of performers. Polacca (Polonaise) is a dance-style character and tempo, not a term about solo vs. ensemble playing.