What does "damper pedal" refer to in piano terminology?

The term "damper pedal" in piano terminology refers to the pedal located on the far right of the piano. This pedal is crucial as it allows the player to lift the dampers off the strings when pressed, enabling the strings to continue vibrating even after the keys are released. This creates a rich, sustaining sound and is essential for expressive playing.

When the damper pedal is released, it re-engages the dampers, stopping the vibration of the strings and allowing for a clear separation of notes. This pedal is key for creating dynamic contrasts and for performing legato passages effectively, giving the performer the ability to flow smoothly between notes.

The other options refer to different functions and pedals on the piano. The leftmost pedal typically serves a different purpose, while the middle pedal is associated with softening the sound rather than sustaining it. A technique to mute strings does not relate directly to the function of the damper pedal as it involves a different action entirely.