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Ottava – Definition
Ottava is a musical notation that instructs performers to play notes one or more octaves higher or lower than written.
What is Ottava?
The marking 8va (ottava alta) indicates that notes should be played one octave higher than written, while 8vb (ottava bassa) indicates that they should be played one octave lower. These markings reduce the need for numerous ledger lines and make music easier to read.
When the ottava line ends or the word loco appears, performers return to playing the notes at their written pitch.
How is Ottava used in piano playing?
Pianists frequently encounter ottava markings in passages that extend into the highest or lowest registers of the keyboard. These markings improve readability while allowing composers to use the piano’s full range.
Understanding ottava notation helps pianists sight-read more efficiently and perform wide-ranging passages with greater confidence.