How Do You Spell PIANISSIMO?

Pronunciation: [pi͡ənˈɪsɪmˌə͡ʊ] (IPA)

Pianissimo is a musical term used to indicate playing very softly. The word is spelled with the letters p-i-a-n-i-s-s-i-m-o. In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be represented as /piəˈnɪsɪmoʊ/. The two "i" sounds within the word are pronounced separately, with a slight emphasis on the first "i". The final "o" is also pronounced with an "oh" sound. This spelling can be confusing for those unfamiliar with Italian musical terminology, but it is commonly used in classical music notation.

PIANISSIMO Meaning and Definition

1. Pianissimo is an Italian musical term used to indicate a very soft or gentle playing volume on a musical instrument, especially the piano. It is derived from the Italian words "piano" meaning "soft" and "issimo" meaning "very." Pianissimo is often abbreviated as "pp" in musical notation.

   When a musician is instructed to play pianissimo, they are being directed to perform with the utmost delicacy and restraint, creating a barely audible sound. It is the softest dynamic level, conveying a sense of intimacy and tranquility in the music. Pianissimo is commonly employed in classical music compositions, where various dynamic levels are used to enhance the expression and emotional impact of the music.

   Pianissimo requires the performer to exert control over their touch, finger strength, and technique. With great sensitivity and finesse, the musician must produce a soft and subtle sound while maintaining evenness and clarity in their playing. This delicate dynamic level holds immense significance, as it allows for contrast and emphasizes other important passages in the composition.

   Pianissimo can also be used as a dynamic marking in conjunction with other musical instructions, such as crescendo or diminuendo, indicating a gradual increase or decrease in volume from a soft beginning or ending. It is a term that represents the artistry and precision required to create a gentle and evocative musical experience.

2. Very softly.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for PIANISSIMO

• piannissimo
• oianissimo
• lianissimo
• -ianissimo
• 0ianissimo
• puanissimo
• pjanissimo
• pkanissimo
• poanissimo
• p9anissimo
• p8anissimo
• piznissimo
• pisnissimo
• piwnissimo
• piqnissimo
• piabissimo
• piamissimo
• piajissimo
• pianissim
• pienissimo
• pianoissmo
• pianismmo

Etymology of PIANISSIMO

The word "pianissimo" originated from the Italian language. It is derived from the word "piano", which means "soft" or "quiet". The suffix "-issimo" is a superlative suffix in Italian, meaning "very" or "extremely". Therefore, "pianissimo" can be translated as "very soft" or "extremely quiet" in musical terms.

Similar spelling words for PIANISSIMO

• pianism,
• pinkins.

Plural form of PIANISSIMO is PIANISSIMOS