What does the term "forte" indicate in music dynamics?

The term "forte" is derived from Italian, meaning "strong" or "loud." In the context of music dynamics, it instructs the performer to play or sing at a volume that is notably strong and assertive.

This term is commonly used in musical scores to indicate that sections should have a powerful presence, contrasting with softer dynamics such as "piano," which means "soft." Additionally, "forte" can be nuanced by context, but generally, it consistently conveys a loudness that is distinct and carries weight in the performance.

The other terms have specific meanings that differ from what "forte" represents. "Soft" directly refers to a quieter dynamic, while "very loud" refers to a volume that is even greater than "forte," signified by the term "fortissimo." "Gradually increasing" indicates a dynamic change and is typically described by the term "crescendo," which is not related to the static dynamic level that "forte" denotes.