Dynamics Notation
Dynamics symbols indicate how loud or soft music should be played or sung.
The basic dynamics symbols are
representing the Italian word piano
("quiet") and
for forte ("loud"). By combining these
letter symbols together varying degrees of loudness or softness can be
indicated.
| Common dynamics symbols | ||
 |
Pianissimo | very quiet (more piano) |
|
Piano | soft or quiet |
 |
Mezzo-piano | moderately quiet |
 |
Mezzo-forte | moderately loud |
|
Forte | loud |
 |
Fortissimo | very loud (more forte) |
| Other symbols include: | ||
 |
Sforzando | A sudden stress or accent on a single note or chord |
 or cresc. |
Crescendo | gradually get louder |
 or dim. |
Decrescendo or Diminuendo |
gradually get softer |
As with tempo notation, this area of notation can be very imprecise and open
to performer interpretation. Just how soft is (piano).
To hear musical examples of how the above symbols are used, check the Music Materials section of the Online Tutor. (Look for the Dynamics link.)