In musical notation, what does "sforzando" (sf) signify?

The term "sforzando" (abbreviated as "sf") is a dynamic marking used in musical notation to indicate that a note or chord should be played with a sudden, strong accent. This means that the performer must emphasize the note significantly more than surrounding notes, creating a dramatic and impactful sound.

The nature of sforzando is about creating a striking contrast within the music, often serving to highlight a particular moment or theme. It contrasts with dynamics like crescendo, which involves a gradual increase in volume, and other terms related to softness or repetition, which do not convey the same immediate emphasis or forceful interpretation. Understanding this helps musicians capture the intended emotion and character of the piece being performed.