semplice
/ˈsɛmplɪtʃeɪ/
adverb
- In music, a direction to perform a passage in a simple, plain, or unadorned style.
- The composer wrote the lullaby semplice, so it would sound gentle and uncomplicated.
- The conductor instructed the violins to play the melody semplice, without any ornamentation.
- In the score, the marking 'semplice' told the pianist to keep the phrasing clean and natural.
adjective
- Simple, plain, or unadorned; used especially as a musical instruction.
- The teacher explained that a semplice marking means 'play it simply, without extra flourishes.'
- Her performance of the semplice passage was beautifully understated.
- The semplice section of the piece required a soft, straightforward touch.