Dynamics
Music theory · Expression: dynamics, articulation, signs · Level 1 · 8 min
The piano was originally called the pianoforte ("soft-loud"): unlike the harpsichord, it could play softly or loudly depending on the force of the attack. Dynamics show this volume. They are written as Italian abbreviations below the staff (between the two staves in piano music).
| Sign | Italian | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| ppp | pianississimo | extremely soft |
| pp | pianissimo | very soft |
| p | piano | soft |
| mp | mezzo piano | moderately soft |
| mf | mezzo forte | moderately loud |
| f | forte | loud |
| ff | fortissimo | very loud |
| fff | fortississimo | extremely loud |
Gradual changes
- crescendo (cresc., or an opening "hairpin" <): gradually louder;
- decrescendo or diminuendo (decresc., dim., or a closing hairpin >): gradually softer.
M:4/4 L:1/4 Q:1/4=90 K:C !p!C D E F | !crescendo(!G A B !crescendo)!c | !f!c B A G | !diminuendo(!F E D !diminuendo)!C |]
Accented dynamics
- sf, sfz (sforzando): a single, suddenly forced note;
- fp (fortepiano): attack loudly, then immediately soft;
- subito p: suddenly soft (a surprise effect Beethoven loved).
Dynamics are relative: a Mozart forte is not a Rachmaninoff forte, and piano in a concert hall is not piano in your living room. Think of them as characters: p = intimate, f = assertive. And always prepare a crescendo by starting soft enough: you can only grow if you have room.
Common mistake: playing everything mezzo forte. Exaggerate the contrasts when practising: listeners always perceive less difference than you think you are making. And a dynamic lasts until the next one!
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