Meaning and usage of the word con sordino in English

In stringed instruments like the violin and cello, a mute is a small device that is placed on the bridge of the instrument to limit the amount of vibration that is transmitted to the strings. This mutes the sound of the instrument, making it quieter and duller in tone. The term "con sordino" is used to indicate that the performer should play their instrument with a mute, usually to achieve a softer or more subdued sound during a particular passage or section of the music. It is commonly used in orchestral settings, particularly in quieter or slower pieces, to provide a more delicate and nuanced sound. The use of a mute is also common in brass and woodwind instruments, although the term "con sordino" is not typically applied to these instruments. In these cases, a device called a "plunger" is often used in place of a mute to achieve a similar effect. In summary, the term "con sordino" derives from the Latin "sordēns" and means "with a mute" in Italian, indicating that a performer should use a dampener to quieten the sound of their instrument in a musical context.