Terraced dynamics refer to a style of musical dynamics that features abrupt changes in volume rather than gradual crescendos or decrescendos. This concept is particularly associated with music from the Baroque period, where contrasting sections of music—often loud and soft—are juxtaposed with little to no transition.
In practice, this means that a passage may switch from a soft dynamic (piano) to a loud one (forte) instantly, creating a striking contrast. This technique helped to delineate different sections of music, providing an expressive tool for composers to convey dramatic changes in mood or character.
For instance, in a Baroque orchestral work, you might hear a passage played softly by strings followed immediately by a full forte sound from the brass, creating a dynamic fabric that keeps the listener engaged. Terraced dynamics thus not only serve a functional purpose in music structure but also enhance the emotional depth of the piece.