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
Sforzando nghĩa là gì trong âm nhạc?
Forced — a sudden, sharp accent on a single note or chord, louder than the surrounding context. Notated sfz or sf.
Từ Sforzando bắt nguồn từ đâu?
Italian, gerund of sforzare (‘to force, strain’), from s- (intensifier) + forza (‘force’), from Latin fortia.
Sforzando được thể hiện thế nào trong thực tế?
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.
Sforzando thường được viết tắt ra sao?
Sforzando thường được viết tắt là sfz, sf.
Những thuật ngữ âm nhạc nào liên quan đến Sforzando?
Thuật ngữ liên quan: Fortepiano, Rinforzando, Marcato.
Practice with Songtive's free tools
Hear this term applied — explore chord charts, fingerings and the music engine.
Piano chordsGuitar chordsVirtual piano
