Duets

A duet is a performance designed for two performers and is used across music, dance, and theater to present a two-person interaction. In general, a duet involves two parts that may share a melody, alternate with harmony, or engage in a back-and-forth dialogue.

In music, duets come in vocal and instrumental forms. Vocal duets involve two singers with typically complementary vocal ranges, such as soprano with alto or tenor with baritone, though any pair is possible. Instrumental duets consist of two players on either the same instrument or different instruments, such as violin and flute, or a pair sharing a single keyboard in a piano duet. A “piano four hands” duet refers to two pianists at one piano; “two pianos” denotes two players at two instruments. Duets can emphasize equal partnership or a lead-and-accompaniment dynamic, and they often employ counterpoint, with the two parts weaving melodies and harmonies.

Duets have a long-standing role in classical music, appearing in Baroque canzonas, Classical sonatas, and opera scenes that pair two characters. They are a common device for expressing emotional contrast, character interaction, or reconciliation. In popular music, duets range from intimate ballads to collaborative tracks featuring featured artists.

In dance and theater, a duet is a performance featuring two actors or dancers who interact closely, frequently exploring themes of partnership, tension, or romance. Notation and production cues for duets address balance between parts, entrances, and the dynamics of the two performers, ensuring clear interplay and synchronization.