Crescendoed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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crescendoed
[krəˈʃɛn.doʊd ]
Definition
musical term
The term 'crescendoed' is the past tense of the verb 'crescendo'. It refers to the process of gradually increasing in volume or intensity, particularly in music. When music crescendos, it builds up from soft to loud, creating a dynamic and compelling effect. This term is used mainly in musical compositions to indicate a progressive rise in the loudness of sound. Composers may include notations in their sheet music to instruct performers to crescendo.
Synonyms
amplified, increased, intensified, swelled.
Examples of usage
- The symphony crescendoed to a powerful climax.
- The orchestra crescendoed beautifully during the finale.
- As the chorus crescendoed, the audience was captivated.
- The music crescendoed, filling the hall with sound.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Music Theory
- Crescendo is often notated with a 'cresc.' symbol or a hairpin shape in sheet music, instructing musicians to gradually increase volume.
- Many famous compositions, such as Beethoven's works, use crescendos to build emotional tension.
- Crescendos can be found across various music styles, including classical, pop, and film scores, amplifying the drama.
Pop Culture
- Films often use crescendos during dramatic scenes, enhancing suspense before a key moment.
- Popular songs frequently employ crescendo effects to engage listeners and highlight climactic points in the music.
- Iconic performances, like those from Queen, showcase crescendos to evoke strong emotional responses from audiences.
Psychology
- Research shows that people are more likely to remember moments in music that feature crescendos due to the heightened emotional experience.
- Crescendos can trigger emotional responses, from excitement to nostalgia, making them powerful tools in storytelling.
- The brain processes gradual increases in sound intensity as more intense and important, impacting how we perceive music.
Literature
- Writers sometimes use the concept of crescendo in poetry and prose, gradually building tension or emotion over time.
- Descriptive language in narratives may mirror musical crescendos, enhancing the reading experience by creating suspense.
- Authors like Shakespeare employed crescendos in dialogue, emphasizing the dramatic buildup during pivotal scenes.
Origin of 'crescendoed'
Main points about word origin
- Derived from the Italian word 'crescere,' meaning 'to grow,' showcasing how sound can grow in intensity.
- First used in musical contexts in the late 18th century, revealing its roots in classical compositions.
- The use of 'crescendo' transitioned from musical notation to everyday language in the 19th century.
The word 'crescendo' originates from the Italian word of the same spelling, which means 'growing' and is derived from the Latin term 'crescentem', the present participle of 'crescere', meaning 'to grow'. The musical term was adopted into English in the late 19th century as a specific instruction in musical notation. Traditionally, it has been used to indicate a gradual increase in volume, becoming particularly associated with classical music and orchestration. Over time, the concept of crescendo has transcended music and is sometimes used metaphorically to describe situations that build in intensity or emotional force, reflecting the term's roots in growth and increase. The evolution of the term from its Italian and Latin origins underscores its long-standing association with dynamics in art and performance.