pianissimo Definition
very softly or quietly, in music.
Using pianissimo: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "pianissimo" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The pianist played the final notes pianissimo.
Example
The orchestra played the introduction pianissimo.
Example
The composer indicated that the passage should be played pianissimo.
pianissimo Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with pianissimo
as softly as possible
Example
The conductor instructed the orchestra to play the passage pianissimo possibile.
very, very softly
Example
The composer indicated that the passage should be played pianissimo assai.
a gradual increase in volume from very soft to slightly louder than very soft
Example
The composer indicated a pianissimo crescendo in the passage.
Origins of pianissimo
from Italian 'piano' meaning 'soft'
Summary: pianissimo in Brief
'Pianissimo' [pee-uh-nis-uh-moh] is an adverb used in music to indicate playing very softly or quietly. It is often abbreviated as 'pp' and has antonyms like 'ff' and 'loud.' The phrase 'pianissimo possibile' means 'as softly as possible,' while 'pianissimo assai' means 'very, very softly.' 'Pianissimo crescendo' refers to a gradual increase in volume from very soft to slightly louder than very soft.
