Largo

Broad and slow

Largo sits at the slow end of the scale: very broad, with a long breath. In the context of tempo markings it lies at about 40–60 bpm. That is a value, not a law: the Italian terms are elastic, which is why modern notation often adds a bpm figure. The “♩ = 52” printed next to “Largo” in the Dvořák movement is an example.

Slow tempi sound calm, sustained, often solemn or heavy. Tempo acts directly on how the body feels, because we link it with heartbeat, breath and movement. On the page Building block: tempo you can hear the same basic pulse at 50 bpm as Largo.

Largo in the score

Piano

• Prélude e-Moll Frédéric Chopin, op. 28 No. 4, from: 24 Préludes · piano · 1 page

  Headed “Largo”, in alla breve (cut time) with one sharp. Beneath the beginning are the markings “p” and “espressivo”.

Orchestra

• Sinfonie Nr. 9, 2. Satz Largo Antonín Dvořák, op. 95 (1893), “From the New World” · score · 18 pages

  The score names “Largo” and adds the metronome marking ♩ = 52, a value within the range of Largo.

Common mistakes

• Playing Largo too fast: It is broad and tense, not hesitant.
• Confusing slow with soft: Tempo and dynamics are different building blocks.
• Reading the metronome number as rigid: It is a guide value.