amplitude
The measure of a sound wave's intensity, perceived as loudness or volume.
In Depth
The loudest sound ever recorded was the eruption of Krakatoa in 1883, which reached an estimated 310 dB and was heard 4,800 kilometres away. For comparison, a full orchestra at fortissimo reaches about 100 dB.
Related Terms
More in Theory
Browse allA sharp, flat, or natural sign that alters a note from the prevailing key signature.
Symbols placed before notes to raise or lower their pitch by a semitone or return them to their natural state
Relating to sound or the properties of sound, especially music produced without electronic amplification.
The natural minor scale, with the pattern W-H-W-W-H-W-W, producing the most common minor tonality in Western music.
Music in which some element of the composition is left to chance or to the performer's discretion.
The second-highest voice type, or an instrument pitched between soprano and tenor.
One or more notes before the first full bar of a piece, also called a pickup or upbeat.
One or more notes that precede the first full measure of a piece, also called a pickup or upbeat, creating forward momentum into the downbeat.