Tacet
Definition. Silent — instruction that a particular instrument or voice does not play during a movement or section.
Detailed Explanation
Tacet is Latin for ‘it is silent’. As a notation direction it indicates that a particular instrument or voice does not play during a section, movement, or piece. The marking is most common in orchestral parts, where individual instruments may rest for entire movements.
The direction allows efficient notation. Rather than writing rests for every measure that an instrument doesn’t play (which could be hundreds of measures across a long movement), the part simply says ‘tacet’ for that movement. The performer knows not to play.
The direction is most common in string-orchestral writing, where particular sections (perhaps the violas, or the second violins) may rest for an entire slow movement while other sections play. The conductor and players coordinate carefully to ensure that tacet sections are clearly understood.
Etymology
Latin, ‘it is silent’, third person singular of tacere (‘to be silent’).
In Practice
If your part says tacet, you don’t play during the marked section. But stay alert — count rests carefully if you have entries later in the same movement.
Notable Examples
- Most orchestral music — Universal usage (common notational shortcut)
Opposite Of
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Tacet mean in music?
Silent — instruction that a particular instrument or voice does not play during a movement or section.
Where does the word Tacet come from?
Latin, ‘it is silent’, third person singular of tacere (‘to be silent’).
How is Tacet performed in practice?
If your part says tacet, you don’t play during the marked section. But stay alert — count rests carefully if you have entries later in the same movement.
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