Interpretation & Use of Dynamics
Dynamics denote the relative intensity of sound & volume in a musical passage or composition. Volume describes the level of loudness of a sound while intensity describes the strength level of a sound. Dynamics are added by the composer as an embellishment to enable the performer to portray a more accurate sense of what the composer intends the composition should sound like. Dynamics are also relative meaning that its use is at the discretion of the performer or the conductor in orchestral instances. Dynamics are considered by some to be another ornamentation
Some dynamics have additional direction to them including terms like the Latin 'subito' (suddenly) or Italian 'niente' (to nothing). Subito is used in sforzando, sff, or spp (see symbols below). Niente' will only appear on the diminuendo or decrescendo.
The symbols are normally placed above the staff where the dynamic effect begins, either written out or abbreviated. Those abbreviations are listed below with the details of its interpretation and common use. Review the symbols and interpretations.
Rinforzando (Italian) ""; "reinforce"; increase in volume and intensity of sound for emphasis quicker than a crescendo
Rinforzando (Italian) ""; "reinforce"; increase in volume and intensity of sound for emphasis quicker than a crescendo