What Is Crescendo? A Clear Definition and 5 Musical Examples
Written by  Daisie Team
Published on 6 min read

Contents

Music has the power to move us, to inspire us, and to make us feel all sorts of emotions. One way it does this is through dynamic changes, where the music grows louder or softer. Today, we're going to explore one of these changes in particular, the crescendo. If you've ever wondered 'what is crescendo?' or 'how do I define crescendo?', you're in the right place. We'll break it down for you and give you some crystal clear musical examples to help you understand.

What is Crescendo?

To define crescendo, we can turn to the word's Italian roots. In Italian, 'crescendo' means 'growing'. In music, a crescendo is when the volume gradually increases over a period of time. It's like a musical roller coaster that's climbing up to the peak. This build-up creates tension and anticipation in the music, making the listener hooked on every note.

Here's a simple breakdown to help you define crescendo:

  • Gradual increase: A crescendo isn't a sudden jump in volume. Instead, it's a slow and gradual build-up. It's like turning the volume knob on your speaker slowly to the right.
  • Creates tension: The slow increase in volume during a crescendo creates a sense of tension in the music. You feel like something big is about to happen.
  • Used for emphasis: Composers often use crescendos to highlight a particular moment or theme in the music. The crescendo draws your attention and makes that part stand out.

Now that we've managed to define crescendo, let's take a look at some examples. This will not only help you recognize a crescendo when you hear one, but also appreciate the dramatic effect it can have on a piece of music.

How to identify Crescendo in music

Identifying a crescendo in a piece of music can be a fun and rewarding experience. It's like finding hidden treasure in your favorite songs! But how do you do it? Let's dive into some tips and tricks.

First, listen for a gradual increase in volume. This might seem obvious, but it can be subtle and might require you to really focus. A crescendo is not a sudden jump in loudness, but a slow, steady build-up. So, you'll need to tune your ears to the volume level of the music and notice if it's getting louder over time.

Second, pay attention to how the music makes you feel. A crescendo often creates a sense of anticipation or tension. It's like the moment in a movie where the hero is about to face the villain. If you find your heart pounding or your breath catching, you might be in the middle of a crescendo.

Lastly, look for musical highlights. If there's a part of the music that seems to stand out, a crescendo might be leading up to it. Composers use crescendos to add emphasis to important parts of the music, so a crescendo can be a sign that something big is coming.

Now that you know how to identify a crescendo in music, let's move on to some examples. It's time to put your new skills to the test!

Musical Example 1

Let's start exploring our first example to better define crescendo. It's none other than Ludwig van Beethoven's "Symphony No. 5". Known for its iconic four-note motif, this piece also provides a striking illustration of a crescendo.

Now, imagine you're listening to the symphony. Notice how the music begins with a distinct, repetitive pattern — the famous "da-da-da-DUM". You'll hear this pattern repeated, but as it continues, the volume begins to increase, ever so slowly. This is the crescendo at work!

As the crescendo develops, there's a growing sense of anticipation. The music swells, the tension builds, and then... BOOM! Beethoven hits you with an explosive burst of sound. That's the peak of the crescendo, my friend! It's a breathtaking moment that leaves many listeners with goosebumps.

So, why not give Beethoven's "Symphony No. 5" a listen? See if you can identify the crescendo. Remember, it's all about the slow build-up of volume and the increase in tension. Happy listening!

Musical Example 2

Ready for another ride on the crescendo roller coaster? This time, we're going to define crescendo using the grandeur of opera. Our second musical example is Richard Wagner's "Ride of the Valkyries".

Now, picture yourself in a grand opera house. The curtain lifts, and the orchestra begins to play. The music starts softly, almost whisper-like. But don't let that fool you — a crescendo is on its way.

As the piece moves forward, the volume starts to grow. You can feel the music swelling, filling the room with a powerful energy. It's as if the orchestra is stirring up a musical storm. The crescendo is happening, and it's exhilarating!

Then, just when you think the music can't get any louder, Wagner unleashes the full force of the orchestra. The crescendo peaks, and it's like a thunderclap — loud, bold, and undeniably dramatic.

So, why not give "Ride of the Valkyries" a listen? Try to pinpoint the crescendo. Remember, it's not just about the increase in volume, but also about the rise in intensity. Enjoy the ride!

Musical Example 3

Let's pivot from opera to a genre that is a bit more modern: rock. Believe it or not, even rock music can serve as an example when we want to define crescendo. In this case, we're turning our attention to the song "Stairway to Heaven" by Led Zeppelin.

Imagine you're at a concert. The lights dim, the crowd hushes, and the distinctive opening notes of "Stairway to Heaven" begins to play. It starts off quietly, with a gentle melody played on the guitar. But don't be fooled - a crescendo is looming.

The intensity and volume start to increase, bit by bit. The drums and bass join in, adding to the rising energy. The crescendo is building, becoming more and more prominent as the song progresses.

And then, right on cue, the crescendo hits its peak - the guitar solo! It's loud, it's energetic, and it's the musical climax of the song. A perfect example of a crescendo in the rock genre.

So, next time you listen to "Stairway to Heaven", try to identify the crescendo. Remember, it's all about the build-up of intensity and volume. Rock on!

Musical Example 4

Now, let's enter the realm of pop music to further define crescendo with our fourth example. We are tuning in to the anthem of the 80s, "Livin' on a Prayer" by Bon Jovi.

When this track starts, the synthesizer sets the scene with a slow, steady rhythm. You might be tempted to think it's going to be a calm song. But just like a good story, a good song builds up tension, and "Livin' on a Prayer" is no exception.

As the song progresses, the energy continues to rise. The introduction of the drums, the guitar, and the soaring vocals all contribute to the growing intensity. This build-up, my friends, is a textbook example of a crescendo in pop music.

Then comes the chorus. It’s loud, it's packed with energy, and it's the pinnacle of the crescendo. If you've ever been to a Bon Jovi concert, you know exactly what I mean – the crowd goes wild!

So, the next time "Livin' on a Prayer" comes on the radio, try to spot the crescendo. Remember, it's not just about the volume, it's about the build-up, the anticipation, and ultimately, the release of musical energy. Enjoy!

Musical Example 5

Moving on to our fifth and final example to help define crescendo, let's dive into the world of film scores. If you've watched movies, you'd know how music can influence the emotions of a scene. In particular, let's take a look at the famous "Imperial March" from Star Wars.

The moment Darth Vader steps into the scene, the "Imperial March" begins its march. The composition starts softly, using low brass and strings, creating an ominous atmosphere. Now, this is where it gets really interesting.

The music starts building up. The tempo remains the same, but the intensity and volume gradually increase. More instruments join in, the brass section becomes more prominent, and the music starts to fill your senses. This is a crescendo at its finest in film scores.

By the time the theme is at its peak, the full orchestra is playing, and you can't help but feel the power and menace of Darth Vader's character. This is the power of a well-executed crescendo—it can make you feel the story even without the visuals.

So, there you have it—a crescendo defined by five diverse musical examples. Remember, music is a language of emotion, and crescendo is one of its most powerful phrases. Happy listening!

If the idea of exploring different aspects of music and expanding your creative horizons excites you, be sure to check out the workshop 'Expanding your Creative Comfort Zones' by Celina Rodriguez. This workshop will help you break free from your usual creative patterns and discover new approaches in music and beyond.