John Densmore

I grew up listening to my parents' albums. Many of them were either classical - Bach, Beethoven and Brahms - or easy listening, like Mantovani. I loved the spectrum of emotions in classical music, from fortissimo to pianissimo. My early passion for classical made my drumming more musical later on.

American Musician

In sheet music, fortissimo is indicated by 'ff' showing a section should be played very loudly.

Dynamic Mark

Fortissimo often symbolizes a high point of emotional intensity within a piece of music.

Emotional Intensity

Even in fortissimo, musicians must maintain balance; one instrument shouldn't overpower others.

Orchestral Balance

Fortissimo sections create contrast, making quieter passages stand out more in a musical composition.

Contrast Effect

Playing fortissimo often demands physical effort from musicians, especially for acoustic instruments.

Physicality Required

In compositions, fortissimo is often reached gradually, ascending from softer dynamics for impact.