Sforzando
Definition. Forced — a sudden, sharp accent on a single note or chord, louder than the surrounding context. Notated *sfz* or *sf*.
Detailed Explanation
Sforzando, notated as sfz or sf, indicates a sudden, sharp accent on a single note or chord. The note is played with an explosive emphasis, louder than the music around it — even if the prevailing dynamic is already piano or pianissimo, the sforzando note erupts above it.
The term comes from the Italian sforzare, ‘to force’. The implication is exactly that: force the note out, give it a kick. On strings, this means a fast bow stroke with sudden weight. On piano, a quick attack with arm drop. On winds, a punched tongued attack.
Sforzando differs from a regular accent (>) in degree and character. An accent gives a slight emphasis; sforzando is a much sharper, more explosive attack. Beethoven is the great master of sforzando — his sforzandos punctuate phrases like exclamation points, often in surprising or off-beat places, creating his characteristic rhythmic vitality.
Etymology
Italian, gerund of sforzare (‘to force, strain’), from s- (intensifier) + forza (‘force’), from Latin fortia.
In Practice
Make the sforzando a distinct event. The note must clearly stand out from its neighbors. Don’t merely play it slightly louder — give it a sharp, percussive quality that registers as a deliberate accent.
Notable Examples
- Beethoven — Symphony No. 3 ‘Eroica’ (characteristic sforzandos throughout)
- Schumann — Symphony No. 4 (extensive sforzando writing)
Related Terms
Opposite Of
Frequently Asked Questions
Hvad betyder Sforzando i musik?
Forced — a sudden, sharp accent on a single note or chord, louder than the surrounding context. Notated sfz or sf.
Hvor kommer ordet Sforzando fra?
Italian, gerund of sforzare (‘to force, strain’), from s- (intensifier) + forza (‘force’), from Latin fortia.
Hvordan udføres Sforzando i praksis?
Make the sforzando a distinct event. The note must clearly stand out from its neighbors. Don’t merely play it slightly louder — give it a sharp, percussive quality that registers as a deliberate accent.
Hvilke forkortelser bruges for Sforzando?
Sforzando forkortes sædvanligvis sfz, sf.
Hvilke musikudtryk er beslægtede med Sforzando?
Beslægtede begreber: Fortepiano, Rinforzando, Marcato.
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