What does the dynamic marking 'fp' stand for?

The dynamic marking 'fp' stands for fortepiano, which indicates that a passage should be played loudly (forte) at the beginning and then immediately soft (piano). This marking creates a dramatic contrast in volume, emphasizing the initial strong sound followed by a sudden decrease in intensity. Musicians interpret this to enhance the emotional quality of the music, drawing attention to the transition in dynamics.

Understanding fortepiano is crucial for performance, as it helps convey the composer’s intent and adds expressiveness to the interpretation of the piece. Recognizing dynamic markings like 'fp' allows musicians to engage with the music on a deeper level, delivering not just the correct notes, but also the intended emotional impact.