How Do You Spell MEZZO PIANO?

Pronunciation: [mˈɛzə͡ʊ pɪˈanə͡ʊ] (IPA)

Correct spelling for the English word "mezzo piano" is [mˈɛzə͡ʊ pɪˈanə͡ʊ], [mˈɛzə‍ʊ pɪˈanə‍ʊ], [m_ˈɛ_z_əʊ p_ɪ__ˈa_n_əʊ] (IPA phonetic alphabet).

MEZZO PIANO Meaning and Definition

  1. Mezzo piano is an Italian musical term that translates to "moderately soft" in English. It is commonly abbreviated as "mp" in musical scores. Mezzo piano is an instruction given to performers to play or sing with a moderate level of softness, meaning the sound should be somewhat subdued or gentle, but still audible.

    The term mezzo piano is typically used in the realm of classical music, and is part of the dynamic markings that convey the intensity or volume of a musical passage. It falls in the middle of the dynamic spectrum, between the softer piano (p) and the louder mezzo forte (mf).

    When a musician encounters the marking mezzo piano in their sheet music, they are expected to adjust their playing or singing to produce a sound that is not too forceful or overly loud, but rather calm and restrained. It does not indicate a completely hushed or whisper-like sound, but rather a deliberate reduction in volume.

    Mezzo piano is a versatile dynamic level that can be used in a variety of musical contexts. It can create a sense of intimacy, delicacy, or reflection, enhancing the overall musical expression and emotional impact of a piece. In a larger ensemble setting, it may serve as a way to provide a softer backdrop or accompany other more prominent instruments or voices.

    In summary, mezzo piano is an instruction in music directing performers to play or sing with a moderately soft volume or intensity.

Etymology of MEZZO PIANO

The music term "mezzo piano" can be broken down into two parts: "mezzo", which means "moderate" or "medium" in Italian, and "piano", which means "soft" in Italian.

The term "piano" was derived from the earlier term "pianoforte", which was a combination of the Italian words "piano" (soft) and "forte" (strong). The pianoforte was invented in the early 18th century and was designed to produce a range of dynamics, enabling the player to control the volume by varying the force with which the keys were struck.

Over time, musicians and composers started using the word "piano" on its own to refer to soft dynamics, and "mezzo piano" came to define a specific dynamic level that is moderately soft, falling between the softer "piano" and louder "mezzo forte".