Mezzo forte

How Composers Use It

Mezzo forte is the "natural" dynamic for most instruments — comfortable, projecting, but not strained. It is the default dynamic when no marking is given. Use explicit mf markings when you want to establish this level after louder or softer passages.

Example

Throughout Haydn's symphonies — much of the conversational, developmental writing sits at mf, allowing room to grow to forte or retreat to piano.

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