short diminuendo - Dynamics - Philipp Dangas

General information on „Dynamics“ [4/4]

The instrumentation is the appropriate means to realize dynamic demands precisely. This avoids misunderstandings during performances.

In the process, instrumentalists are largely released from personal responsibility. Especially at structurally significant points it is important to pay attention to the instrumentation. Just that the dynamic nuances appear almost by themselves.

Instrumenting the dynamics is a challenge. This is one of the best ways to make them appear different.

Since it is a very important part of our music, great importance should be attached to its instrumentation. It can appear as a structure-reinforcing element. It can also support the expression of melodic, harmonic and rhythmic progressions. It can also help clarify the shape.

3rd part of the article „Dynamics“ - 1st part of the article „Dynamics“

A short diminuendo as part of the „symphonic world music“

The „diminuendo“ or the „decrescendo“ and the „crescendo“, whether in long or short form, mechanically or dynamically, is one of the best ways to shape our music through dynamic adaptation.

Even if dynamics and rhythm dominate, our music shouldn't and mustn't sound simple. By instrumenting the dynamics, it is possible to reinforce the structure, to prepare for the „mute“ progression of the music in a break, and to clarify the formal structure.

General information about a short diminuendo

A short diminuendo is usually created with dynamic means. Through performance designations such as, e.g. B. diminuendo. Also typical of a short diminuendo is the decrease in instrumentation before a break in the sentence.

A short diminuendo demonstrated by way of example

In this example, a short diminuendo is implemented. First of all, the volume is reduced using the dim statement. [diminuendo]. That means "gradually becoming quieter". A closer look at the score reveals a certain order. After which the instruments “fall silent” in the orchestral movement.

Order of removal of the instruments:

1. Instrument groups: woodwind, brass and strings

• Bassoons
• bass tubas and
• double bass tubas
• cellos and
• double basses

2. Instrument groups: woodwind, brass and strings

• clarrinets
• trumpets
• trombones and contrabass trombones
• Violas

3. Instrument group: woodwinds

• bass clarinets

4. Instrument group: brass

• horns

5. Instrument group: strings

• II. Violins

6. Instrument group: strings

• I. Violins

A small diminuendo that is demonstrated as an example. Every time an instrument fades away, no sonic color break is audible. This is due to the sound affinity of the participating instruments.