sostenuto pedal: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

No, it is a standard feature on most grand pianos but is less common on upright pianos, where the middle pedal often serves a different function (like a practice mute).

The damper pedal sustains all notes played while it is held down. The sostenuto pedal 'catches' and sustains only the specific notes whose keys are being held down at the precise moment you press it, leaving you free to play other notes without sustain.

It is often abbreviated as "S.P.", "sost. ped.", or indicated by a specific symbol (a horizontal line with an asterisk or 'Sost.' above it). It is frequently cancelled by the term "senza sordini" or a release symbol.

It became prominent in late-Romantic and Impressionist music. Composers like Claude Debussy, Maurice Ravel, and Charles Ives used it extensively for its ability to create layered, resonant textures and bell-like effects.

The middle pedal on a modern grand piano that sustains only the notes being held down at the moment the pedal is depressed, allowing other notes to be played staccato.

Sostenuto pedal is usually technical / formal in register.

Sostenuto pedal: in British English it is pronounced /ˌsɒstəˈnjuːtəʊ ˈpɛd(ə)l/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌsɔstəˈnuːtoʊ ˈpɛd(ə)l/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.