Tre Corde
Definition. Three strings — full release of the una corda pedal, returning to normal tone.
Detailed Explanation
Tre corde, Italian for ‘three strings’, is a piano direction instructing the player to fully release the una corda pedal so hammers strike all three strings normally. The marking cancels a previous una corda direction and returns the piano to its full, unaltered tone.
The direction is the natural counterpart to una corda. Where una corda softens and veils the tone, tre corde restores fullness. The transition from una corda to tre corde is dramatic — the tone opens up, gains brightness, and reaches full dynamic potential.
Like many of these markings, tre corde dates from early-19th-century pianos where the una corda mechanism could be set to varying degrees. Modern usage primarily uses tre corde to cancel a previous una corda; intermediate stages (due corde) are rare.
Etymology
Italian, ‘three strings’ — tre (‘three’) + corde (‘strings’).
In Practice
Fully release the left pedal. The tone will return to its normal full state — ready for full dynamic range and bright tone color.
Notable Examples
- Beethoven — Late piano sonatas (tre corde to cancel una corda)
Related Terms
Opposite Of
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Tre Corde mean in music?
Three strings — full release of the una corda pedal, returning to normal tone.
Where does the word Tre Corde come from?
Italian, ‘three strings’ — tre (‘three’) + corde (‘strings’).
How is Tre Corde performed in practice?
Fully release the left pedal. The tone will return to its normal full state — ready for full dynamic range and bright tone color.
What musical terms are related to Tre Corde?
Related terms include: Una Corda, Due Corde.
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