The term indicates a tempo marking in music, signifying a very slow pace. It is generally understood to be slower than adagio and is often associated with a broad, dignified, and stately character. Compositions marked with this tempo often convey a sense of solemnity or grandeur. Examples can be found in various classical pieces where composers sought to evoke feelings of depth and emotional weight.
Its use is beneficial for creating dramatic contrast within a musical work, allowing the composer to explore the lower end of the tempo spectrum. Historically, its application was particularly prevalent in Baroque and Classical periods, where composers employed it to highlight crucial thematic material or to create moments of profound expression. The deliberate slowness allows for detailed articulation and enhances the emotional impact of the music.
