Definition

1. Adjective & Adverb:
   • Gradually decreasing in tempo and broadening in manner: A musical direction indicating that the music should become progressively slower and more broadly expressive.

Usage

• As a musical instruction: "Allargando" is used in sheet music to instruct the performer to slow down the tempo while increasing the expressiveness and breadth of the sound. It is typically placed above the staff.
  • The composer marked the final chords with "allargando" to create a majestic, expansive conclusion.
  • The conductor signaled for an allargando passage, so the orchestra began to play more slowly and broadly.

Advanced Usage

• Interpretive nuance: While "allargando" primarily indicates a slowing of tempo, it inherently carries a connotation of increased volume, weight, and emotional intensity. It is not merely a technical slowdown but a broadening of the musical character.
  • The pianist's sensitive use of allargando at the climax gave the phrase a profound sense of grandeur.

Variants and Related Words

• Rallentando (rall.): Gradually slowing down.
• Ritardando (rit.): Gradually holding back the tempo; slowing down.
• Calando: Becoming softer and slower.
• Morendo: Dying away, both in tempo and volume.

Synonyms

• Broadening
• Slowing and broadening

Related Musical Terms (Analogous to Idioms/Phrases)

• Con espressione: With expression.
• Maestoso: Majestic, stately.
• Allargando il tempo: A more explicit phrasing meaning "broadening the time/tempo."

Adjective

1. gradually decreasing in tempo and broadening in manner