Volti Subito

Volti subito, abbreviated V.S., is Italian for ‘turn quickly’. As a notation direction it instructs the performer (or page-turner) to turn the page rapidly — typically because the music continues without pause on the next page and a slow turn would interrupt the music.

The direction is essential in solo and ensemble music where page turns can disrupt the flow. Without a clear V.S. indication, performers may turn pages slowly or at inopportune moments. The marking warns: be ready to turn quickly here.

In modern editions, V.S. markings are often supplemented by careful editing — placing rests at page turns where possible, ensuring that page turns coincide with natural breaks in the music. But when continuous music spans a page turn, V.S. is essential.

Italian, ‘turn quickly’ — volti (imperative of voltare, ‘to turn’) + subito (‘quickly’).

Be ready before the marking. Anticipate the turn; have the page corner gripped. The turn must be clean — fumbling at this point disrupts the music.