Dynamics and Expressive Techniques

Dynamics- Refers to the volume of music.

In Western Music, the musical terms for the varying dynamics are:

Pianissimo- Very Soft

Piano- Soft

Mezzo- Medium

Forte- Loud

Fortissimo- Very Loud

Two varying volumes:

Crescendo- Gradually getting louder

Decrescendo- Gradually getting softer

Expressive Techniques-

Refers to how an instrument is played to create sound.

Below, are families of the orchestra exploring various methods of playing to create a different sound (tone colour).

1. String here

2. Woodwind here

3. Vocal here

4. Brass here