Definition

1. Adjective:

   • Very slow in tempo and broad in manner: In music, "largo" describes a piece or passage that is performed at a very slow, broad, and stately pace. It is one of the slowest tempo markings.

2. Adverb:

   • Slowly and broadly: Used as a direction in music to indicate that a passage should be played in a very slow and broad manner.

3. Noun:

   • (Music) a composition or passage that is to be performed in a slow and dignified manner: A piece of music, or a section within a larger work, that is intended to be played at a "largo" tempo.

Examples of Usage

• Adjective:

  • The second movement is marked "largo," creating a solemn and expansive mood.
  • He conducted the largo section with great patience and breadth.

• Adverb:

  • The score instructs the cellist to play this phrase largo.
  • She sang the aria largo, emphasizing every emotional nuance.

• Noun:

  • The concert featured a beautiful largo by Handel.
  • The string quartet's performance of the largo was deeply moving.

Advanced Usage

• As a tempo marking: "Largo" is a specific Italian musical term used in scores. It is generally slower than "adagio" and "lento."

  • The tempo indication at the beginning of the piece is simply "Largo."

• In descriptive language: The term can be used metaphorically outside of music to describe something slow and grand.

  • The largo march of the glaciers shaped the landscape over millennia. (Note: This is a figurative, advanced use.)

Variants and Related Words

• Larghetto (adj., adv., n.): A tempo marking that is slow and broad, but slightly faster than "largo."
  • The larghetto movement provided a gentle contrast to the vigorous finale.

Synonyms

• Slowly (adv.): At a low speed. (Less specific than the musical term "largo.")
• Stately (adj.): Dignified and imposing in manner or appearance. (Captures the broad, dignified quality.)
• Grave (adj., adv., n.): In music, a very slow and solemn tempo. (Similar in slowness but often with a more solemn character.)

Related Phrases (Musical Directions)

• Largo ma non troppo: Slowly, but not too much. A direction to play slowly, yet without excessive dragging.

  • The composer specified "largo ma non troppo" to ensure the music remained flowing.

• Largo e mesto: Slowly and sadly. A direction combining tempo and expression.

  • The sonata's slow movement is marked "largo e mesto."

Related Idioms

(As a specific musical term, "largo" is not commonly used in everyday English idioms. Its usage is primarily technical within the context of music.)

Adjective

1. very slow in tempo and broad in manner

Adverb

1. slowly and broadly

Noun

1. (music) a composition or passage that is to be performed in a slow and dignified manner