Con Sordino
Definition. With mute — instructing the performer to attach the mute to soften the tone.
Detailed Explanation
Con sordino, abbreviated con sord., is Italian for ‘with mute’. As a performance direction it instructs the performer to attach the mute to their instrument, producing a softer, more veiled tone. The marking applies until cancelled by senza sordino (without mute).
Muted sound is fundamental to atmospheric writing. Muted violins sound veiled and distant; muted cellos sound warm but slightly muffled; muted brass can sound nasal, distant, or comic depending on the mute type. Composers reach for con sordino when they want a particular tonal color — typically softer, sometimes mysterious or dreamy.
The time required to attach the mute means con sordino directions usually appear with some advance warning — a few rests or a slow passage that allows the player time to attach the mute without disrupting the music.
Etymology
Italian, ‘with mute’ — con + sordino (‘mute’).
In Practice
Attach the mute during the time provided. Don’t rush; a properly attached mute is essential for tone quality. Once attached, the tone will be noticeably softer — adjust dynamics and bow pressure accordingly.
Notable Examples
- Tchaikovsky — Romeo and Juliet Overture-Fantasy (con sordino love theme)
- Mahler — Symphony No. 5, Adagietto (con sordino strings throughout)
Related Terms
Opposite Of
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Con Sordino mean in music?
With mute — instructing the performer to attach the mute to soften the tone.
Where does the word Con Sordino come from?
Italian, ‘with mute’ — con + sordino (‘mute’).
How is Con Sordino performed in practice?
Attach the mute during the time provided. Don’t rush; a properly attached mute is essential for tone quality. Once attached, the tone will be noticeably softer — adjust dynamics and bow pressure accordingly.
What are common abbreviations for Con Sordino?
Con Sordino is commonly abbreviated as con sord..
What musical terms are related to Con Sordino?
Related terms include: Sordino, Senza Sordino.
Practice with Songtive's free tools
Hear this term applied — explore chord charts, fingerings and the music engine.
Piano chordsGuitar chordsVirtual piano
