What is the term for a note that is played with a forced sudden accent?

The term for a note that is played with a forced sudden accent is "sforzando." This style of articulation indicates that a note should be played with a strong emphasis, creating a distinctive, impactful sound that stands out from the surrounding notes. Sforzando is often notated with the abbreviation "sfz" in sheet music, drawing attention to the note to convey its importance within the musical context.

Understanding the use of sforzando is crucial in performance, as it allows musicians to express dynamics and nuances that enhance the emotional delivery of a piece. In contrast, the other terms—like accent, which denotes a more general emphasis on a note, or fortissimo, which refers to a volume level that is very loud—do not specifically capture the sudden and forceful attack that characterizes sforzando. Staccato, on the other hand, pertains to a style of playing where notes are sharply detached and distinct, which is different from the emphasis highlighted by sforzando.