A fortepiano [ˌfɔrteˈpjaːno] is an early piano. In principle, the word can designate any piano dating from the invention of the instrument by Bartolomeo Cristofori around 1700 up to the early 19th century. (music) Soft, quiet. In extended use; quiet, subdued.

How is forte different to piano?

The tone of the fortepiano is quite different from that of the modern piano, however, being softer with less sustain. Sforzando accents tend to stand out more than on the modern piano, as they differ from softer notes in timbre as well as volume, and decay rapidly.

Why do they call it the piano forte?

The words "piano" and "forte" come from Italian - piano means soft, and forte means loud. Fortepianos are able to play loud (forte) and soft (piano) ... The older the instrument, the more likely it is to be called a fortepiano.