Which term describes a section divided into two or more parts to play different notes in the same passage?

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

Answer: (D)

Divisi is the instruction for a section to split into two or more groups so they play different notes within the same passage. This lets a single written line carry multiple pitches by dividing the players, creating harmony or texture that wouldn’t be possible if everyone played the same note. In practice, one group takes the upper notes while another takes the lower ones, sometimes with cued entrances and rejoining in unison afterward. Pizzicato means plucking the strings, tempo is about speed, and mezzo forte means moderately loud, none of which indicate dividing the section into separate notes.