Dynamics and Articulation

Question 1

dynamics

Answer 1

markings used to show how loudly to play a piece of music

Question 2

articulation

Answer 2

markings used to show how a note should be played or sung, such as staccato or slurred

Question 3

dynamic mark sf/sfz

Answer 3

sforzando - sudden accent

Question 4

how has the use of dynamics differed in different periods

Answer 4

• Dynamics were rarely used in the Baroque and Classical periods.
• Dynamics from the Romantic period onwards are used to create dramatic effects.
• Dynamics beyond pp and ff are rarely used to emphasise important moments.

Question 5

legato

Answer 5

linked together; played smoothly

Question 6

slur

Answer 6

without a gap between two notes; joined by curved lines

Question 7

staccato

Answer 7

detached; played short and sharp; indicated by short vertical strokes or dots in line with the note

Question 8

tenuto

Answer 8

played for its full length

Question 9

marcato

Answer 9

a sharp and short accent; indicated by a ^

Question 10

double/triple/quadruple tounging

Answer 10

a technique used to produce rapid articulation; indicated by diagonal lines through the stem of notes

Question 11

flutter tounging

Answer 11

quick tounging with a rolled ‘r’ sound; indicated by diagonal lines through the stem of notes and ‘flz’

Question 12

largo

Answer 12

slowly and broadly

Question 13

vivace

Answer 13

lively

Question 14

presto

Answer 14

very quick

Question 15

accelerando

Answer 15

gradually speeding up

Question 16

rallentando

Answer 16

gradually slowing down

Question 17

ritenuto

Answer 17

immediately slower

Question 18

allargando

Answer 18

getting slower and broadening

Question 19

rubato

Answer 19

‘robbed time’ - rhythms are played freely for expressive effect

Question 20

accent

Answer 20

emphasis on a particular note