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Musical Terms
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Presto
Very fast tempo. Usage: 'The presto passage requires dexterous fingerwork.'
Forte
Loud dynamic level. Usage: 'The passage is marked forte for emphasis.'
Grave
Slow and solemn tempo. Usage: 'The grave introduction sets a serious tone for the symphony.'
Lento
Slow tempo. Usage: 'The lento movement provides a contrast to the piece's otherwise brisk pace.'
Dal Segno
From the sign. Usage: 'Once you reach the fine, go back to the dal segno mark.'
Tranquillo
Calm, tranquil. Usage: 'This section should be played tranquillo to soothe the listener.'
Allegro
Fast, cheerful tempo. Usage: 'The first movement of the symphony is marked allegro.'
Decrescendo
A gradual decrease in volume. Usage: 'The decrescendo signifies the end of the phrase.'
Legato
Smooth and connected style of play. Usage: 'The legato technique on the violin creates a flowing melody.'
Staccato
Detached or separated style of play. Usage: 'Play the notes staccato for a lighter texture.'
Subito
Suddenly. Usage: 'The subito pianissimo creates an unexpected contrast in the music.'
Mezzo Piano
Moderately soft dynamic level. Usage: 'The flutes enter with a mezzo piano dynamic, creating a subtle layer.'
Fermata
A hold or pause on a note or rest. Usage: 'The fermata indicates that this note should be held longer.'
Andante
At a walking pace tempo. Usage: 'The second movement is in andante tempo.'
Ritardando
Gradual slowing down of tempo. Usage: 'The ritardando here emphasizes the end of the section.'
Vivace
Lively and fast tempo. Usage: 'The finale is marked vivace for a spirited ending.'
Mezzo Forte
Moderately loud dynamic level. Usage: 'The strings come in mezzo forte, adding warmth to the melody.'
Giocoso
Jocular, playful. Usage: 'The giocoso character here should bring out the music's humor.'
Sostenuto
Sustained, lengthened. Usage: 'Play the chord sostenuto to let each note ring out.'
Fine
The end. Usage: 'The music concludes after the repeat, at the word fine.'
Pianissimo
Very soft dynamic level. Usage: 'The pianissimo passage requires careful control of the bow.'
Piano
Soft dynamic level. Usage: 'The soloist enters with a gentle piano melody.'
Moderato
Moderate tempo. Usage: 'Begin the piece with a steady moderato rhythm.'
Fortissimo
Very loud dynamic level. Usage: 'During the climax, the orchestra plays fortissimo.'
Accelerando
Gradually speeding up the tempo. Usage: 'The accelerando builds up excitement leading to the finale.'
Con Moto
With motion. Usage: 'The allegro con moto section should feel energetic and lively.'
Da Capo
From the beginning. Usage: 'After the final chorus, return to the da capo section.'
Adagio
Slow and stately tempo. Usage: 'The adagio section gives a moment of rest in the piece.'
Crescendo
A gradual increase in volume. Usage: 'The music builds excitement through a crescendo.'
Alla Marcia
In the style of a march. Usage: 'The piece transitions into an alla marcia rhythm, signaling a change of pace.'
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