little tutti - orchestral effects - Philipp Dangas

General information about the tutti

When the whole orchestra unfolds its power of sound, one speaks of a tutti. A tutti is realized in sentence conclusions, in dynamic contrast formations or also in thematic high points.

Various factors must be considered when orchestrating a tutti passage. The relationship to the formal structure and also the number of participating instruments. Instruments with a short sound duration can also be used for a “tutti”. Meant instruments are e.g. B. a harp, a timpani or a drum.

It is not uncommon for the „tutti“ to be performed in f [Italian: forte = “loud”] and in ff [Italian: fortissimo = “very loud”]. A "tutti" is also possible in p [Italian: piano = "quiet"]. A uniform overall sound is achieved when certain conditions are met. The ratios of the positions, as well as the timbres, in relation to the sound groups must be observed. The position of the instruments used should be powerful and comfortable.

little tutti

First of all, it is necessary to distinguish between a little tutti and a big „tutti“. A little tutti makes it possible to use only a part of the instruments available in an orchestra. The brass can only partially play along.

In another case, for example, the woodwinds can all or only partially play along. In all cases, the musical character and pitch of the passage in question is decisive. A little tutti fulfills these conditions, because these factors determine the type and number of participating instruments.

little tutti as part of the „symphonic world music“

The division into 'dynamic—chordal tutti' and 'thematic tutti' is appropriate. It is about the development of sonority and sonority in the "dynamic—chordal tutti". The “thematic tutti” is about an f [Italian: forte = “loud”] or ff [Italian: fortissimo = “very loud”] version of the theme.

little tutti demonstrated by way of example

In the following example we see a "little tutti" in which some of the woodwind and brass are not involved. At the beginning all wind instruments have sustained tones. The string orchestra enlivens the tonal surface for the thematic guidance of the 1st violins. The 3 groups (woodwind, brass and strings) achieve a self-contained effect. Basic requirement for the “Tutti” to come into play.

In addition, there is an increase in the "tutti" (both dynamically, in terms of timbre and in terms of the number of participating instruments). It unfolds after 8 bars in a "big tutti".