moltissimo

Moltissimo is an Italian musical term that functions as a superlative adverb meaning extremely or very much. In score notation it is used to intensify a directive, often in combination with tempo, dynamics, or expression marks. For example, accelerando moltissimo would indicate a very rapid acceleration, while crescend o moltissimo would signal a greatly increasing volume or intensity. It can also modify expressive indications, such as molto legato or molto espressivo, to convey a heightened degree of the character.

Etymology and usage context: moltissimo derives from molto (much) with the superlative suffix -issimo, forming a strong intensifier. It is typically applied to another directive rather than as a standalone marking. Its exact placement and interpretation depend on the context and editor, but the intent is clear: to push the parameter to a high extreme within the musical phrase.

Common practice and variations: While moltissimo is recognized across periods, it appears most often in Romantic and later repertoire, where composers seek a dramatic or heightened effect. In modern editions, editors may substitute or supplement moltissimo with terms like assai (very) or molto, depending on readability and the surrounding markings. The term remains a precise, if emphatic, Italian directive within the traditional language of music notation.

In summary, moltissimo signals an extreme degree of a specified characteristic, serving to heighten tempo, dynamics, or expression far beyond more common markings.