# abouchement

CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/abouchement
Updated: 2026-06-22

## Definition

a way of playing a musical note so that it starts very softly and then gets louder. It is often used in classical music to make the sound feel more natural.

For teachers: a musical technique involving a gradual increase in volume from a soft beginning to a louder middle, followed by a return to a softer level. Often used to describe the natural swell of a note in string or wind instruments.

## Examples

- The violinist used a beautiful abouchement to start the piece.
- The conductor requested a specific abouchement on the opening theme to create a sense of mystery and tension.
- While the term is less common in modern pedagogy, the abouchement remains a vital expressive tool for string players seeking to replicate the organic swell of a human voice.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.