Musical Dynamics & Tempo Vocabulary

a gradual increase in loudness

“The symphony built to a magnificent crescendo.”

Origin: Italian crescendo `growing`, from Latin crescere `to grow`

a gradual decrease in loudness

“The piece faded in a gentle diminuendo.”

Origin: Italian diminuendo `diminishing`, from Latin diminuere

loud or strong

“The brass section entered forte.”

Origin: Italian forte `strong`, from Latin fortis

soft or quiet

“The passage was marked piano.”

Origin: Italian piano `soft`, from Latin planus `flat, even`

very loud

“The finale exploded in fortissimo.”

Origin: Italian, superlative of forte `strong`

very soft

“The strings whispered pianissimo.”

Origin: Italian, superlative of piano `soft`

fast and lively tempo

“The allegro movement sparkled with energy.”

Origin: Italian allegro `cheerful, lively`

slow and stately tempo

“The adagio was deeply moving.”

Origin: Italian ad agio `at ease`

moderate walking tempo

“The andante provided a gentle interlude.”

Origin: Italian andante `walking`, from andare `to go`

expressive freedom with timing

“Chopin's music demands tasteful tempo rubato.”

Origin: Italian `stolen time`