Dynamics
The loudness and softness in music is called dynamics. We typically use Italian terms to indicate how loud or soft a section of music should be. Here are basic dynamic terms, as well as their abbreviations.
Term |
Meaning |
Abbreviation |
pianissimo |
very soft |
pp |
piano |
soft |
p |
mezzo piano |
medium soft |
mp |
mezzo forte |
medium loud |
mf |
forte |
loud |
f |
fortissimo |
very loud |
ff |
crescendo |
getting louder |
cresc. |
diminuendo |
getting softer |
dim. |
decrescendo |
getting softer |
decresc. |
In written music, these dynamic markings are indicated below the staff to which they refer, and they are represented by their abbreviations. Crescendo and diminuendo can also be indicated with the following symbols, printed below the staff.
Crescendo:
Diminuendo:
