terraced dynamics

Terraced dynamics (a term invented by Ferruccio Busoni) means a sudden change from one dynamic level to another without either crescendo or diminuendo. Think in terms of contrasting blocks of sound, with no blending or gradation, the effect you get going from one keyboard of the organ (or harpsichord) to another.

Expressive style typical of some early music in which volume levels shift abruptly from soft to loud and back without gradual crescendos and decrescendos.

Terraced dynamics are demonstrated in Bach's Brandenburg Concerto No. 1 in F major, performed by Karl Richter and the Münchener Bach Orchester. In this video example, you can hear abrupt changes in dynamics between the solo instruments playing mezzo piano (medium soft) and the full orchestra playing forte (loud).

Terraced dynamics means a sudden change in tempo or volume without gradual crescendos and decrescendos. The primary reason why Baroque music used terraced dynamics was the popularity of the harpsichord. The harpsichord can not get gradually louder or softer.

For example, listen to Bach's Two part Invention in C Major. You have a statement of the initial subject that repeats again and again. You'll notice how it gets louder each time it is played. This is an example of terraced dynamics.

Baroque music uses terraced dynamics. This means that the volume stays the same for a period of time, then there is a sudden shift to a different dynamic level.

the Baroque era You rarely hear ensembles getting gradually louder or softer in the Baroque era, because the harpsichord can't do that. In the Baroque era, we have what are called "terraced" dynamics.

Unity of mood meant that a Baroque piece usually expressed one basic emotion. Rhythmic patterns that were heard at the beginning of the piece and repeated throughout were referred to as unity of rhythm. An opening melody that was heard again and again in the course of a piece was called continuity of melody.

Terraced dynamics were used as the main keyboard instrument was the harpsichord, which could only be played in two modes, either loud (forte) or soft (piano), precluding the ability to accomplish crescendos or decrescendos.

For example, listen to Bach's Two part Invention in C Major. You have a statement of the initial subject that repeats again and again. You'll notice how it gets louder each time it is played. This is an example of terraced dynamics.

Baroque music uses terraced dynamics. This means that the volume stays the same for a period of time, then there is a sudden shift to a different dynamic level. There are no gradual changes in dynamics (such as a crescendo or decrescendo).

Baroque music uses terraced dynamics. This means that the volume stays the same for a period of time, then there is a sudden shift to a different dynamic level. There are no gradual changes in dynamics (such as a crescendo or decrescendo).