Dynamics and Expressive Techniques

Question 1

Crescendo

Answer 1

Gradually increasing volume

Question 2

Decrescendo

Answer 2

Gradually decreasing volume

Question 3

Glissando

Answer 3

A smooth, continuous slide from one pitch to another

Question 4

Vibrato

Answer 4

A slight, rapid variation in pitch used to add warmth and richness to a sustained note

Question 5

Tremolo

Answer 5

A rapid repetition of a single note or alternation between two notes, creating a trembling effect

Question 6

Pedal (piano)

Answer 6

The use of the piano pedals to sustain or dampen sound

Question 7

Staccato

Answer 7

A technique where notes are played sharply and detached from one another

Question 8

Legato

Answer 8

A technique where notes are played smoothly and connected, with no perceptible breaks between them

Question 9

Rubato

Answer 9

A flexible approach to tempo, allowing for expressive timing variations, often used in romantic music to convey emotion

Question 10

Sforzando

Answer 10

A sudden, strong accent on a note or chord, creating a striking impact

Question 11

Piano

Answer 11

Soft dynamics

Question 12

Forte

Answer 12

Loud dynamics

Question 13

Pianissimo

Answer 13

Very soft dynamics

Question 14

Fortissimo

Answer 14

Very loud dynamics

Question 15

Accent

Answer 15

Emphasis placed on a particular note or chord, making it stand out

Question 16

Pitch Bend

Answer 16

A technique used to create a smooth transition between pitches by slightly altering the pitch of a note

Question 17

Trill

Answer 17

Rapidly moving between two neighbouring notes

Question 18

Harmonics

Answer 18

A technique used to cancel the fundamental frequency and instead hear the overtones of a pitch