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Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Con sord. is short for the Italian con sordino, meaning “with mute.” It tells the performer or section whose part is marked to use the appropriate mute for that instrument. It is a playing instruction—not a tempo or dynamic marking.
What does con sord. mean on a music score?
The London College of Music Examinations glossary defines con sordini (also written con sord) as “with mutes” for strings and brass. The direction applies to the staff or group where it appears, rather than automatically to every instrument in the score. London College of Music Examinations, “Component 2: Questions on a Score”.
What should a player do?
First identify the instrument and the part carrying the marking. A string player uses a suitable mute on the instrument; the mute and technique depend on the instrument and musical context. Brass players likewise use an appropriate mute for their instrument. The notation gives the musical instruction, but it does not specify one universal mute design.
Do not assume the phrase always calls for attaching a bridge or bell mute. Musicca notes that piano usage can refer to a pedal instruction, with interpretation varying by period. The instrument and score context determine what the direction means in practice. Musicca, “Con sordino – Definition in music”.
#1 Best Overall
Does con sord. mean play more quietly?
Not necessarily. A mute changes the sound’s character as well as potentially affecting its level, and the marking is not itself a dynamic instruction. Pearson’s Vaughan Williams set-work support guide discusses a passage where the strings are marked con sordino even during a fortissimo passage: the muted effect is for tone quality, not simply to make the music quieter. Pearson, A-level Vaughan Williams set-work support guide.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What does senza sord. mean?
Senza sord. or senza sordini means “without mutes.” When it appears, the muted instruction ends and the relevant players continue without the mute. The London College of Music Examinations glossary lists senza sordini as “without mutes.” London College of Music Examinations, “Component 2: Questions on a Score”.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Format: Book & 2 CDs
- Category: Textbook - General
- Contributors: By Andrew Surmani, Karen Farnum Surmani, and Morton Manus
- Pub Date: 8/2004
- Series: Essentials of Music Theory
Rank #2
- An all-in-one music theory course designed for students of any age — whether listeners or performers — who want a solid understanding of the language of music
- Covers foundational concepts including staff, notes, pitches, clefs, time signatures, note values, dynamics, flats, sharps, and whole and half steps across 25 concise lessons
- Combines reading and writing exercises with ear-training support (CDs sold separately) and unit reviews to reinforce learning and test knowledge retention
- Compatible with optional computer software featuring randomized drilling and scorekeeping for interactive, self-paced study
- Part of a complete product line including Teacher's Answer Keys, Flash Cards, Double Bingo games, and Reproducible Teacher's Activity Kits for studio and classroom use
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