Subito
Definition. Suddenly — a modifier indicating an abrupt change, often in dynamics (*subito piano*) or other elements.
Detailed Explanation
Subito is Italian for ‘suddenly’. As a musical direction it indicates an abrupt change — most commonly in dynamics. Subito piano (often abbreviated sub. p) means ‘suddenly soft’: an immediate, unprepared drop to piano, regardless of what dynamic preceded it.
Subito changes are dramatic. Where a normal dynamic shift involves a gradient (crescendo or diminuendo), a subito change is a step — instantaneous, almost shocking. The marking is most common in the form subito piano but can apply to any dynamic: subito forte, subito pianissimo, even subito fortissimo for sudden eruptions.
The device is essential to comic and dramatic effect in opera, to rhetorical surprise in symphonic writing, and to expressive contrast in chamber music. Haydn and Beethoven are masters of subito surprises. The term is also used non-dynamically: subito attacca means ‘proceed immediately to the next section without break’.
Etymology
Italian and Latin, ‘suddenly’, from Latin subitus (‘sudden’), past participle of subire (‘to come up, approach’).
In Practice
Make the change cleanly. No gradual approach, no anticipation — the new dynamic must arrive precisely at the marking, not a beat before. In ensemble work, this often requires explicit cuing.
Notable Examples
- Haydn — Symphony No. 94 ‘Surprise’ (the famous subito fortissimo)
- Beethoven — Various (extensive subito p markings)
Related Terms
Opposite Of
Frequently Asked Questions
Co oznacza Subito w muzyce?
Suddenly — a modifier indicating an abrupt change, often in dynamics (subito piano) or other elements.
Skąd pochodzi słowo Subito?
Italian and Latin, ‘suddenly’, from Latin subitus (‘sudden’), past participle of subire (‘to come up, approach’).
Jak wykonuje się Subito w praktyce?
Make the change cleanly. No gradual approach, no anticipation — the new dynamic must arrive precisely at the marking, not a beat before. In ensemble work, this often requires explicit cuing.
Jakie są typowe skróty dla Subito?
Subito skraca się zwykle jako sub..
Jakie terminy muzyczne wiążą się z Subito?
Terminy pokrewne: Sforzando, Fortepiano.
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