Which term indicates a sudden strong accent?

• A. Sforzando (sfz)
• B. Rinforzando (rfz)
• C. Con brio, brioso
• D. Tenuto

Answer: (A)

A sudden strong accent is called sforzando. In notation, sfz tells you to attack the note or chord with a quick, forceful burst of volume, often followed by a immediate drop in intensity. This creates a sharp, abrupt emphasis at that moment.

Rinforzando adds emphasis as a reinforcement within the music, typically strengthening an already stressed note or beat, but it isn’t necessarily about a sudden, explosive attack on a single note the way sforzando is. Con brio, brioso are expressions guiding overall character—play with spirit and vigor—rather than signaling a specific, abrupt accent on one note. Tenuto means to hold a note for its full value (sometimes with a slight emphasis), but it does not call for an accented attack.