Pianissimo
Definition. Very soft — a dynamic level quieter than piano, typically the second-softest standard dynamic. Notated *pp*.
Detailed Explanation
Pianissimo, notated as pp, is the standard Italian marking for ‘very soft’. It sits below piano in the dynamic hierarchy, indicating a hushed, intimate level of sound. In conventional dynamic charts pianissimo is the second-softest mark, with pianississimo (ppp) and quieter variants below.
Pianissimo is one of the most expressive dynamic levels in the repertoire. Used well, it draws the audience inward — the listener leans forward to catch every detail. Beethoven and Brahms use pianissimo at moments of profound stillness; Mahler stretches it almost to inaudibility; Debussy and Ravel make it a signature texture for delicate impressionist scenes.
Achieving a true pianissimo requires technical control. On strings, slow bow with light contact. On piano, finger-touch with no arm weight. On winds, careful breath support without pressing. On voice, focused tone at minimum volume without losing pitch or intelligibility. The danger is that pianissimo dissolves into nothing or becomes cold and strained — neither is the goal.
Etymology
Italian, superlative of piano (‘soft’), from Latin planus (‘flat, level, smooth’). The musical sense developed from ‘soft, gentle’.
In Practice
Pianissimo must still project. The audience must hear it — softness without presence is silence. Practice maintaining tone quality at minimum volume; let the room help carry the sound.
Notable Examples
- Beethoven — Symphony No. 5, third movement (the famous pp pizzicato in the cellos and basses)
- Mahler — Symphony No. 9, fourth movement (extensive pianissimo writing at the close)
Related Terms
Opposite Of
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Pianissimo mean in music?
Very soft — a dynamic level quieter than piano, typically the second-softest standard dynamic. Notated pp.
Where does the word Pianissimo come from?
Italian, superlative of piano (‘soft’), from Latin planus (‘flat, level, smooth’). The musical sense developed from ‘soft, gentle’.
How is Pianissimo performed in practice?
Pianissimo must still project. The audience must hear it — softness without presence is silence. Practice maintaining tone quality at minimum volume; let the room help carry the sound.
What are common abbreviations for Pianissimo?
Pianissimo is commonly abbreviated as pp.
What musical terms are related to Pianissimo?
Related terms include: Piano (dynamic), Pianississimo, Sotto Voce, Mezza Voce, Niente.
Practice with Songtive's free tools
Hear this term applied — explore chord charts, fingerings and the music engine.
Piano chordsGuitar chordsVirtual piano
