Dynamics
What are Dynamics?
Dynamics are how loud or soft to play the music. Dynamic markings indicate the volume. Composers write the dynamic signs underneath the music. They do not write the dynamics signs under every note, just when they want the volume to change. There are markings for soft, medium and loud. There are also markings that say to slowly or quickly get louder or softer. Further down this page you can see some examples of dynamic markings. These are the most common markings, but there are a few more!
Videos to help you learn more
For seniors:
For juniors:
Dynamics Markings
Activity
1. Grab your music books. Write down a list of things that sound piano, forte, mezzo piano mezzo forte. (Yes, you can do this by yourself or in a group of 2-3 people)
Here's an example to get you started:
Piano - whispering, breathing when you sleep, a cat walking.
Forte - Dogs barking, police siren.
Mezzo piano - Talking to somebody next to you, microwave cooking.
Mezzo forte - Cat meowing, dishwasher washing.
2. Write your own rhythm and add the dynamic signs to it. Do this one by yourself or with a buddy.
As you can see from the example above, dynamics go under the notes. You do not need to write a dynamic under every note. You only write it when you want to change the dynamic.You do not need to put the notes on a stave as you are only writing the rhythm
If you have forgotten some of the rhythms, use the posters on the wall. Or check out this video. This covers 3 of the rhythms that we know.
3. Clap your rhythm. Make sure you clap the dynamics too!
4. Swap rhythms with someone and try clapping theirs.
5. If you have finished all of this you can: write a new rhythm. This time see if you can put the bar lines in. Not sure how to use bar lines? Check out this video!
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