Loco
Definition. In place — instruction to return to normal-octave reading after an *ottava* or *ottava bassa* marking.
Detailed Explanation
Loco, Italian for ‘in place’ or ‘at the location’, is a performance direction that cancels a previous ottava (8va) or ottava bassa (8vb) marking. The performer returns to reading the notes at their normal written pitch — neither up nor down an octave.
The direction is essential when an octave displacement passage transitions back to normal. Without an explicit loco, the dashed line of the previous 8va or 8vb marking eventually ends, but loco provides clearer notation.
In practice, the dashed line of the 8va/8vb marking usually marks both the start and end of the octave-displaced section. ‘Loco’ is sometimes added at the end for extra clarity, but the dashed line alone is normally sufficient.
Etymology
Italian, ‘in place’, from Latin loco (‘in the place’), ablative of locus.
In Practice
When you see loco, return to reading the notes at their actual written pitch — no octave transposition. The previous 8va or 8vb marking is cancelled.
Notable Examples
- Most piano music — Universal usage (common with octave displacement)
Related Terms
Opposite Of
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Loco mean in music?
In place — instruction to return to normal-octave reading after an ottava or ottava bassa marking.
Where does the word Loco come from?
Italian, ‘in place’, from Latin loco (‘in the place’), ablative of locus.
How is Loco performed in practice?
When you see loco, return to reading the notes at their actual written pitch — no octave transposition. The previous 8va or 8vb marking is cancelled.
What musical terms are related to Loco?
Related terms include: Ottava, Ottava Bassa.
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