Which term indicates a sudden, sharp accent?

Which term indicates a sudden, sharp accent?

• A. Simile
• B. Sempre
• C. Sforzando
• D. Ritenuto

Answer: (C)

A sudden, sharp accent is indicated by sforzando. It calls for a quick, strong emphasis on the note or chord, like a sudden burst of loudness, often followed by a quick return to the surrounding dynamic level. This creates a noticeable punch or emphasis at that moment, which is what gives it its dramatic effect. The other terms describe different ideas: simile means to continue in the same way, always or in a repeated manner; sempre means to do something all the time; and ritenuto means to slow down or hold back briefly.

A sudden, sharp accent is indicated by sforzando. It calls for a quick, strong emphasis on the note or chord, like a sudden burst of loudness, often followed by a quick return to the surrounding dynamic level. This creates a noticeable punch or emphasis at that moment, which is what gives it its dramatic effect. The other terms describe different ideas: simile means to continue in the same way, always or in a repeated manner; sempre means to do something all the time; and ritenuto means to slow down or hold back briefly.