Crescendo and diminuendo

A crescendo is used for gradually getting louder, and a decrescendo or diminuendo is used for gradually getting softer. These may be indicated with the terms themselves, by abbreviations (cresc., decresc., dim.), or graphically.

1. What is a crescendo in music?
2. What is a crescendo and decrescendo called?
3. What are the dynamic symbols in music?
4. What dynamics were used in music?

What is a crescendo in music?

English Language Learners Definition of crescendo

: a gradual increase in the loudness of a sound or section of music. : the highest or loudest point of something that increases gradually. See the full definition for crescendo in the English Language Learners Dictionary. crescendo.

What is a crescendo and decrescendo called?

The notation sfzp (or sfp) means a sforzando followed immediately by piano. The terms crescendo, and diminuendo (or sometimes decrescendo), mean a gradual getting louder or quieter. They can also be shown by signs known as "hairpins". A hairpin opening out is a crescendo, one which closes is a diminuendo.

What are the dynamic symbols in music?

The main dynamic symbols are:

• pp – Pianissimo – very soft.
• p – Piano – soft.
• mp – Mezzo piano – medium-soft.
• mf – Mezzo forte – medium-loud.
• f – Forte – loud*
• ff – Fortissimo – very loud.
• fff – Triple forte – even louder**

What dynamics were used in music?

Dynamics

• Pianissimo (pp) – very quiet.
• Piano (p) – quiet.
• Mezzo forte (mf) – moderately loud.
• Forte (f) – loud.
• Fortissimo (ff) – very loud.
• Sforzando (sfz) – a sudden, forced loud.
• Crescendo (cresc) – gradually getting louder.
• Diminuendo (dim) – gradually getting quieter.