Hearty

What it means

Herzhaft (“hearty”) is a German performance marking and calls for a stout-hearted, incisive performance. What is meant is playing without hesitation: the notes are attacked decisively, the phrases led with conviction, the dynamics not held back.

The marking concerns the attitude, not the tempo. It means courage in the approach — the opposite of a cautious, wait-and-see performance.

It differs from risoluto, which asks for resoluteness, through warmth: an incisive joy resonates along, not only determination. It differs from energico, which means strength, in that it is less about power than about carefreeness.

In the notation

The word stands above the staff at the beginning of a movement or section, in German-language editions in place of an Italian marking, and applies until a new marking. It is often found over movements of a folk-like character, clear rhythm, and strong dynamics.

Musical use

The designation is used in songs, in dance movements, and in instrumental pieces with an incisive, often folk-like tone. In the choral literature it stands over pieces that are to be sung with full commitment. In teaching literature it serves to encourage learners to a decisive approach.

The instruction calls for a stout-hearted, incisive performance with strong tone and resolute articulation. It stands in German scores of the Romantic period and corresponds roughly to Italian con fermezza or risoluto. The expression is direct and unaffected, less pathetic than heroic. Especially in folk-song arrangements and dances, herzhaft fits a robust, natural sound. It needs a clear entry and a stable tempo.

Performance practice

Attack the notes decisively and avoid cautious feeling out. Keep the pulse stable and the strong beats distinct. Play with full sound without pressing it. And take the instruction also as a hint at the inner attitude: a section that is to be played herzhaft tolerates a small mistake better than timidity.