What does the term subito mean in music?

The term "subito" in music signifies a sudden or immediate change, and it is often used in conjunction with dynamics or tempo. When a composer instructs the performer to play "subito," it indicates that they should execute the change with urgency, delivering a notable contrast in the music. For example, "subito piano" means to suddenly play softly, and "subito forte" means to suddenly play loudly. This term is essential for conveying dramatic shifts in a piece and contributes to the overall emotional expression of the music.

In the context of the other options, "slowly," "gradually," and "softly" all refer to different aspects of musical expression but do not capture the immediacy implied by "subito." Understanding this term allows performers to interpret and execute music with the intended dynamics and emotional impact effectively.