Pianissimi Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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pianissimi
[pjɑːnɪˈsɪmi ]
Definition
musical term
Pianissimi is a term used in music to indicate a very soft or quiet sound. It is an Italian word, stemming from 'piano,' which means soft. Musicians are instructed to play or sing with great subtlety and gentleness when they see this marking in a score. This term often contributes to the overall dynamics and expressive qualities of a musical piece.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The orchestra played pianissimi during the delicate passage.
- She sang the final notes pianissimi to create a haunting atmosphere.
- The pianist executed the piece with several pianissimi sections.
Translations
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Origin of 'pianissimi'
The term 'pianissimi' is derived from the Italian word 'piano,' which translates to 'soft' or 'quiet.' It has its origins in the early Italian musical practices of the 16th and 17th centuries when musical notation began to evolve, allowing composers to specify dynamics more distinctly. The use of dynamic markings became increasingly common during the Baroque period and reached significant development in the Classical and Romantic eras. As composers sought to convey not just melody but also emotion and subtleties in performance, terms like 'pianissimo' (very soft) were introduced. The superlative form 'pianissimi' emphasizes an even softer playing style, which composers sometimes employed to add expressiveness to a piece. The Italian language has had a profound influence on the terminology of Western music, with many terms relating to dynamics, tempo, and expression coming from this rich linguistic heritage.