What does 'forte' mean in musical dynamics?

'Forte' is an Italian term used in musical notation that indicates a loud dynamic level. It is one of the basic terms used to describe how loudly or softly a piece of music should be played. In the context of dynamics, the term 'forte' is commonly represented by the letter 'f' in sheet music, signaling performers to play with strength and volume.

Understanding dynamic markings like 'forte' is crucial because they greatly affect the expression and intensity of a musical performance. Other dynamic terms include 'piano' for soft, 'mezzo-piano' for moderately soft, and 'mezzo-forte' for moderately loud, with each serving to guide the musician in conveying the emotional content of the music.