Create extra staves in violin sections

"Request: Enable divisi staff creation for section instruments in Dorico.

Current behavior: Additional staves (for divisi writing) can only be added to solo instruments, not to section instruments. This creates a workflow issue since in real orchestral writing, it is primarily sections (not soloists) that require divisi notation.

Requested change: Allow creation of additional staves for section instruments, particularly:

  • String sections (Violin I, Violin II, Violas, Cellos, Basses)
  • Other sections that may divide (e.g., Choir sections)

Musical context:

  • Divisi writing is a standard practice in orchestral music, especially for string sections
  • Current workaround of using solo instruments for divisi doesn’t reflect actual orchestral practice
  • This affects scoring for orchestras, string ensembles, and choral groups
  • Common use cases include:
    • String section divisi into 2-3 parts
    • Complex divisi in romantic/modern orchestral works
    • Temporary division of sections for specific passages

This feature would align Dorico’s functionality with standard orchestral writing practices and make scoring for larger ensembles more intuitive."

I think I am going nuts, unless I am misunderstanding.

There already is a divisi function it’s actually only available for section players.

Where did you get the idea that divisi wasn’t possible in Dorico?

2 Likes

i kept clicking on the add staves and dorico said i could only do that with solo instruments. i did stumble across what you are describing.
thanks.