pianissimo

Pianissimo is a dynamic marking in music notation indicating a very soft volume. It is abbreviated as pp and is the Italian for "very soft." In scores, it directs performers to produce a quiet, delicate sound rather than a loud one. The exact level of softness depends on the instrument, the acoustics of the performance space, and the interpretive choices of the musician.

On the piano, pianissimo is often achieved with a light touch and restrained pedaling, producing a gentle, airy tone. For string players, it requires a very light bow and minimal pressure, sometimes near a detaché. For wind and brass players, it demands careful breath control or reduced air support to maintain a soft, even tone without wavering.

History and usage: Dynamic markings such as pp were standardized during the Baroque and Classical periods and remained central through Romantic and modern repertoire. Pianissimo can be used to convey tenderness, secrecy, or suspense and frequently appears in contrast with louder passages, such as fortissimo or mezzo-forte. The marking may also appear with additional indications such as "ppp" (pianississimo) for an even softer character.

See also: piano, mezzo-forte, fortissimo, crescendo, decrescendo.