subito piano
Italian composer
Definition
Suddenly soft. An abrupt dynamic shift to quiet, without a gradual decrescendo. One of Schubert's most characteristic expressive devices.
Interpretive Guidance
Schubert's subito pianos are often the most dramatic moments in a piece — a sudden deflation of energy that can be more affecting than a fortissimo. The effect requires no preparation; the silence before the soft note is part of the gesture.