Kraft

What it means

Kraft (“strength, power”) as a performance instruction usually stands in the phrase “mit Kraft” (“with power”) and calls for an energetic, powerful performance. It corresponds to the Italian con forza or energico.

What is meant is not volume alone. Power shows in a definite attack, in a firm rhythm, in a full sound, and in an attitude that does not hold back. A powerful performance can also take place in a middle volume range if the notes have substance.

It differs from wuchtig, which means heaviness and mass, through tension: weightiness rests, power acts. It differs from herzhaft, which asks for a stout-hearted approach, through the emphasis on the energy applied.

In the notation

The word stands above the staff at the beginning of the section concerned, in German-language editions in place of an Italian marking, and applies until a new marking. It is often found together with accents, strong dynamics, and full-grip chords.

Musical use

The instruction is used in sections of an incisive character, in intensifications, in themes that are to assert themselves, and in choral movements with a corresponding text. In the German-language music of the nineteenth century it belongs to the frequent performance words, often in connection with a tempo marking.

The instruction, usually as mit Kraft, calls for an energetic, powerful performance with firm tone and clear accents. German performance markings of this kind spread in the nineteenth century, when composers such as Schumann used the mother tongue alongside Italian. Power arises less from mere volume than from tension in the tone and decisive articulation. Pianists use arm weight for this, string players a firm bow attack close to the bridge. A pressed, hard sound is to be avoided.

Performance practice

Look for the power in the attack and in the rhythm, not in volume alone. Keep the tone full and avoid pressing — a pressed sound seems narrow, not powerful. Keep the pulse firm. And keep reserve: a section that is played with full power from the start cannot intensify further.