PIANOFORTE Meaning and
Definition
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The term "pianoforte" refers to a musical instrument that falls under the category of a keyboard instrument, typically played by striking the keys with the fingers. It is also known as the piano. The name "pianoforte" is derived from the Italian words "piano" meaning soft and "forte" meaning loud. It excellently reflects the instrument's capability to produce varying degrees of volume or dynamics.
The pianoforte typically consists of a row of keys, usually 88 in number, which are connected to hammers that strike the strings when the keys are pressed. The hammers rebound, allowing the strings to vibrate and produce sound. The instrument is built with a wooden casing that houses the strings and soundboard, which amplifies and resonates the sound.
Considered a versatile and widely played instrument, the pianoforte is capable of producing a broad range of sounds, from delicate and fragile subtleties to powerful and majestic crescendos. The performer can control the dynamics of the sound simply by varying the pressure applied to the keys.
The pianoforte's rich tonal palette and expressive capabilities have made it a staple in a wide range of musical genres, from classical and jazz to contemporary and pop. Composers and musicians throughout history have composed countless pieces specifically for the pianoforte, utilizing its melodic and harmonic possibilities to create intricate and captivating works.
In summary, the term "pianoforte" refers to a keyboard instrument capable of producing a wide dynamic range, allowing for subtly nuanced as well as dramatically powerful musical expression.
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Usually contracted into piano a well-known stringed instrument played with the fingers by means of a key-board-so called from its capability of producing soft or strong sounds.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PIANOFORTE
- oianoforte
- lianoforte
- -ianoforte
- 0ianoforte
- puanoforte
- pjanoforte
- pkanoforte
- poanoforte
- p9anoforte
- p8anoforte
- piznoforte
- pisnoforte
- piwnoforte
- piqnoforte
- piaboforte
- piamoforte
- piajoforte
- Pianofortece
Etymology of PIANOFORTE
The word "pianoforte" comes from Italian, where "piano" means "soft" and "forte" means "loud" or "strong". The term was used to describe a keyboard instrument that could produce both soft and loud sounds, unlike its predecessor, the harpsichord, which only produced relatively constant volume. In the 18th century, the term "pianoforte" became a common name for this new instrument, and eventually, it was shortened to "piano" in English.
Similar spelling word for PIANOFORTE
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