Dynamics and Volume Markings
Practice the Italian dynamic markings, hairpins, and special volume terms used in sheet music.
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Questions Covered in This Set
11 cards to master
What does **p** (piano) mean?
Soft — one step below mezzo-piano on the dynamic ladder.
What does **f** (forte) mean?
Loud, or 'strong' — like 'fortify' or 'fortress'.
What does *mezzo* mean in **mp** and **mf**?
'Half' or 'medium'. **mp** = medium soft (just below the midpoint), **mf** = medium loud (just above).
List the standard dynamic ladder from softest to loudest.
ppp, pp, p, mp, mf, f, ff, fff.
What do the hairpin symbols `<` and `>` mean?
`<` = crescendo (gradually louder); `>` = diminuendo/decrescendo (gradually softer). The hairpin's length shows how long the change takes.
Are dynamics absolute or relative?
Relative — there's no decibel value for forte. What matters is the contrast between levels within the piece.
How long does a dynamic marking stay in effect?
Until a new marking appears — mf in bar 3 still applies in bar 20 unless something changes it.
What does **sf / sfz** (sforzando) mean?
A sudden forced accent on a single note or chord.
What does **fp** (forte-piano) mean?
Attack loud, then immediately drop to soft — a favorite of Beethoven.
How do you tell a diminuendo hairpin from an accent mark?
Size and position: the hairpin spans distance under/between the staves; an accent is small and hugs a single notehead.
What do *subito*, *poco a poco*, and *al niente* mean?
Subito = suddenly; poco a poco = little by little; al niente = fade to nothing (silence).
