Mezzo Forte means Medium Fast!

I think all teachers have found at some time or another that they or their students have redefined the meaning mezzo forte and forte. The new meaning of mezzo forte is medium fast, and obviously forte means fast!


It is an interesting phenomenon that dynamic markings unconsciously influence how fast a section is played. Passages marked piano are often played slowly and treated reverently. Loud passages are played with great speed and gusto. It is amazing to see the connections we unconsciously make between speed and volume, and in turn connect to different emotions.

Smile!

A smile from their teacher can mean a great deal to music students, and make a difference in the way they respond to  instruction. In the same way, a student can make a difference in their teacher's day by wearing a smile and having a willing attitude to learn.

 

So smile, even when your having a bad day, teacher and student wills are clashing, and your patience is wearing thin. Smile!