Dynamics 101

Learn the dynamics and how they work with this all-in-one guide.

Dynamic markings are guidelines for volume. Most dynamic markings are in Italian.

Tip: Dynamics are relative to each other.

Basic Dynamics

	Fortississimo – Very Very Loud
	Fortissimo – Very Loud
	Forte – Loud
	Mezzo-Forte – Medium Loud
	Mezzo-Piano – Medium Soft
	Piano – Soft
	Pianissimo – Very Soft
	Pianississimo – Very Very Soft
	Crescendo – Gradually becoming Louder
	Decrescendo/Diminuendo – Gradually becoming Softer

Other Dynamics

Sforzando (sfz) – Sudden, Forceful Accent
Forzando (fz) – Forceful
Marcato – Marked, Stressed
PianoForte – Soft, then Loud immediately
Sotto Voce – Soft “Voice”
Morendo – Dying Away