Sweetly

As Printed on a Score

Printed as a character word above or beside the staff at the start of a phrase, often in italic or brackets, and in force until a new character direction. It is the English form of dolce and the French doux.

How Composers Use It

Like dolce, it asks for a gentle, tender tone and smooth connection, usually at a soft level, but it describes character rather than volume. Use it to mark a lyrical line or a change of mood. Give a dynamic as well, since sweetly at f is possible and the player should not have to guess.

Related Terms