Unit 4. Intensity
1. Intensity: definition
2. Elements of musical notation which determine the pitch
2.1. Uniform dynamic markings: letters
2.2. Progressive dynamic markings: terms and hairpins
3. Noise pollution
1. Definition
Intensity is the quality of sound which allows us to distinguish between loud and soft sounds. It depends on the wave amplitude.
2. Elements of musical notation which determine the intensity
The intensity of sound is represented by dynamic markings, expressed in three different ways: letters, Italian terms and hairpins. Letters are uniform intensity indicators, while terms and hairpins are progressive intensity indicators.
2.1. Uniform dynamic markings: letters
-
Pianissimo (pp): very soft.
-
Piano (p): soft.
-
Mezzopiano (mp): moderately soft.
-
Mezzoforte (mf): moderately loud.
-
Forte (f): loud.
-
Fortissimo (ff): very loud.
2.2. Progressive dynamic markings: terms and hairpins
-
Terms:
- Crescendo (cresc.): term that indicates a gradual intensity increase, little by little from soft to loud.
- Decrescendo (decresc.) and diminuendo (dim.): terms that indicate a gradual intensity decrease, little by little from loud to soft
-
Hairpins: symbols that indicate a gradual change of intensity.
-
When the vertex is on the left (<), it means that the intensity increases little by little.
-
When the vertex is on the right (>), it means that the intensity decreases little by little.
-
3. Noise pollution
Noise pollution causes negative effects on health, both physical and psychological.
Noise pollution