Poco

/ˈpoʊkoʊ/ adverb

Definition

In music, an instruction meaning 'a little' or 'somewhat,' used to modify other musical directions.

Etymology

From Italian 'poco' meaning 'a little.' Musical terminology borrowed Italian terms because many foundational composers and theorists were Italian during the Renaissance.

Kelly Says

Musicians read 'poco a poco' (little by little) in sheet music to gradually make changes—it's the musical equivalent of a director calling for subtlety instead of sudden shifts.

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