Forte original pen and ink and watercolour illustration by Rosie Brooks

In music, "forte" is a dynamic marking that indicates a passage should be played loudly or strongly. It is an Italian term that means "strong" or "loud," and is often abbreviated as "f" in musical notation. When a passage is marked "forte," the musician is instructed to play with emphasis and intensity, bringing out the full power of the music.

"Forte" is just one of many dynamic markings that are used in music to indicate the volume and intensity of a passage. Other dynamic markings include "piano" (soft), "mezzo piano" (moderately soft), "mezzo forte" (moderately loud), "fortissimo" (very loud), and many others.

The use of dynamic markings is an important part of musical expression and interpretation. By following these markings, musicians can create a wide range of emotions and moods in their performances, from quiet and contemplative to loud and triumphant.

The "F-holes" are the distinctive, elongated, f-shaped openings found on the body of many stringed instruments, including violins, violas, cellos, and double basses. The F-holes serve as both a decorative element and a functional part of the instrument's design.

The F-holes are carved into the instrument's top plate, also known as the soundboard or belly, and allow the sound to escape from the resonant chamber of the instrument. When the strings are played, they vibrate the bridge, which in turn causes the soundboard to vibrate and produce sound waves. The F-holes provide a means for these sound waves to exit the instrument, producing a fuller, more resonant sound.

The design of the F-holes can vary depending on the instrument and the luthier who made it. Some F-holes are more ornate and decorative than others, featuring intricate scrollwork or other designs. However, the basic f-shape remains a constant across all instruments with F-holes.

Overall, the F-holes are a crucial element of the design of many stringed instruments, contributing to their distinctive sound and appearance.