Fortepiano (musical dynamic)
The expression fortepiano is a sudden dynamic change used in a musical score, usually with the abbreviation, to designate a section of music in which the music should be played loudly, then immediately softly. It is not unusual for it to be followed by a crescendo, a gradual increase in dynamics. The word is of Italian etymology literally translated as 'loudsoft'.Examples
Beethoven's Piano Sonata No. 8 begins with a fortepiano:
