Pomposo
Splendid, festive.
What it means
Pomposo means “splendid, magnificent” and calls for a festive performance with a great unfolding of sound. What is meant is the splendour of a solemn ceremony: full tone production, clear rhythm, powerful dynamics, often with dotted rhythms.
Among the words for grandeur and dignity, the differences lie in the point of view. Grandioso means the grandeur of the impression, nobile inner dignity, maestoso the majestic. Pomposo designates outward splendour — the festive, that wants to be seen and heard.
In German the related word pompös has taken on a derogatory undertone; in the notated text this is not meant. Pomposo designates a legitimate expression, not an exaggeration.
In the notation
The word stands in italics above the staff, usually after a tempo word, and applies until a new marking. Typical is proximity to dotted rhythms, full-grip chords, fanfare motifs, and powerful dynamics.
Musical use
The designation is used in festive movements, in introductions and marches of a ceremonial character, and in sections depicting a solemn entrance. The dotted rhythms typical of this go back to the French overture of the seventeenth century, whose solemn opening part shaped a fixed expressive type.
The instruction calls for a splendid, festive performance with full sound, broad movement, and a proud bearing. It often stands in solemn marches, overtures, and closing sections and is gladly combined with brass and timpani. Dotted rhythms, powerful chords, and a somewhat held-back tempo support the character. Pomposo can also be meant ironically, when a composer exaggerates splendour in order to parody it. Bear in mind that the sound becomes grand but not coarse: splendour lives from brilliance...
Performance practice
Play dotted rhythms sharply and definitely; they carry the festive quality. Keep the sound full and bright, without pressing it. Take the tempo rather broad, so that the rhythms gain weight. And keep the pulse firm — splendour tolerates no wavering.