Sotto voce definitions
| Word backwards | ottos ecov |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | Sotto voce is an adverb. |
| Syllabic division | sot-to vo-ce |
| Plural | The plural of "sotto voce" is "sotto voces" |
| Total letters | 9 |
| Vogais (2) | o,e |
| Consonants (4) | s,t,v,c |
When discussing music terminology, the term sotto voce often comes up. This Italian phrase translates to "soft voice" in English and is used to indicate that a passage of music should be performed quietly or in a hushed tone. Musicians are instructed to sing or play sotto voce when they want to create an intimate or secretive atmosphere in the music.
Meaning in Music
In music notation, the marking sotto voce typically appears above a section of the score where the composer desires a softer dynamic level. This instruction lets performers know that they should lower their volume and intensity while playing, creating a delicate and subdued sound. By employing sotto voce in music, composers can add depth and emotion to their compositions.
Artistic Expression
Using sotto voce allows musicians to explore different shades of expression in their performance. It can create a sense of mystery or draw the listener in, making them pay closer attention to the music. By varying dynamics throughout a piece and incorporating techniques like sotto voce, musicians can convey a wide range of emotions and captivate their audiences.
Historical Significance
The concept of sotto voce has been used in music for centuries, with composers from various musical periods incorporating this technique into their works. From the delicate pianissimo passages of a Mozart sonata to the haunting whispers in a contemporary composition, the use of sotto voce continues to be a powerful tool for composers and performers alike.
Overall, sotto voce plays a significant role in shaping the emotional landscape of music. Its ability to create intimacy and depth through quiet, restrained performances adds a unique dimension to musical expression, making it an essential element in the musician's repertoire.
Sotto voce Examples
- She whispered sotto voce so only I could hear her.
- The actor delivered his lines sotto voce for added dramatic effect.
- The professor spoke sotto voce to the student sitting next to him during the lecture.
- The politician made a sotto voce comment that was caught on a hot mic.
- The singer sang the last note sotto voce, creating a hauntingly beautiful ending.
- The chef gave instructions to the sous chef sotto voce in the busy kitchen.
- The spy communicated important information sotto voce to avoid detection.
- The child asked a question sotto voce during the movie screening.
- The therapist spoke sotto voce to her client in a calming tone.
- The librarian reminded patrons to speak sotto voce in the reading room.