What does the rehearsal marking "tutti" mean?

• A. Only the winds should play.
• B. All players or all sections should play.
• C. Only solos should play.
• D. Everyone should rest.

Answer: (B)

Tutti means that everyone should play on that passage. It signals a return to full ensemble after a section for solos or a smaller group, so all instruments join in together with the same tempo, articulation, and dynamics indicated in the score. In a wind ensemble, this is the moment when every player contributes to the blend and balance, not just a subset. It’s contrasted with solo markings or rests, which designate limited players or silence. So the marking directs the whole group to come in and play.