Which term means 'sweetly' in musical expression?

Which term means 'sweetly' in musical expression?

• A. Ritardando
• B. Dolce
• C. Cantabile
• D. Caesura

Answer: (B)

Dolce means sweetly in musical expression, signaling a gentle, tender, lyrical approach to tone and phrasing. When you see dolce, aim for a warm, smooth, unforced quality—like singing softly with endearing warmth. Ritardando refers to slowing the tempo, not to tone quality. Cantabile indicates a singing, lyrical style, but it emphasizes the line and vocal quality rather than the sweetness of color. Caesura marks a pause or break in the music. In performance, dolce guides you to soften the approach, creating a sweet, expressive texture.

Dolce means sweetly in musical expression, signaling a gentle, tender, lyrical approach to tone and phrasing. When you see dolce, aim for a warm, smooth, unforced quality—like singing softly with endearing warmth. Ritardando refers to slowing the tempo, not to tone quality. Cantabile indicates a singing, lyrical style, but it emphasizes the line and vocal quality rather than the sweetness of color. Caesura marks a pause or break in the music. In performance, dolce guides you to soften the approach, creating a sweet, expressive texture.