8va in music meaning | TheMusicDictionary

Meaning of 8va in Music

In music notation, the term "8va" is used to indicate that the notes should be played one octave higher than written. The notation "8va" is derived from the Italian word "ottava," which means "octave" . It is a shorthand notation that simplifies written music for both composers and performers, as it eliminates the need for numerous ledger lines

The "8va" symbol is written above the notes or phrases that should be played one octave higher. It can also be written below the notes or phrases to indicate playing one octave lower. When written below the staff, it is often accompanied by the term "loco" or "perform at the written pitch" to indicate the end of the passage to be altered. The use of a dotted line with the "8va" symbol can indicate a series of notes to be performed at the octave.

The notation "8vb" is sometimes used instead of "8va" to indicate playing one octave lower than written. Both "8va" and "8vb" are commonly understood to mean playing an octave higher or lower, respectively.

Overall, the use of "8va" in music notation simplifies the representation of notes and helps performers read music more easily by avoiding excessive ledger lines.

Abbreviation for all' ottava or "at the octave." This indication is most often found above specific notes on a staff and indicates that those notes should be performed one octave higher than written. This indication can be used with a dotted line that covers a series of notes to be performed at the octave (above). The dotted line should end with a downstroke to indicate the end of the passage to be altered. The end of the passage can also be indicated by the term loco ("at place") or perform at the written pitch.

The use of this indication can also be extended to below the staff. If this indication is found below specific notes on a staff, it indicates that those notes should be performed one octave lower than written. This indication can be used with a dotted line that covers a series of notes to be performed at the octave (below). The dotted line should end with a upstroke to indicate the end of the passage to be altered. The end of the passage can also be indicated by the term loco ("at place") or perform at the written pitch. More often one would see 8va bassa, 8a b, 8vb or simply 8 below the note or passage to indicate performing an octave lower.

This indication is used for two reasons. First, it provides a shorthand for composers and copyists to keep from writing music with numerous ledger lines. Second, it is often preferable to performers who have a more difficult time reading ledger lines than notes on the staff.

This indication was at one time shown as 8a alta (alta meaning alt or high).