Meaning of "Lentissimo" in Music
"Lentissimo" is an Italian musical term that translates to "very slow" or "extremely slow" in English. It is used as a tempo marking in sheet music to indicate that a passage or piece should be played at an exceptionally slow pace. The term "lentissimo" is derived from the Italian word "lento," which means "slow" or "slowly".
Tempo Range and Mood
When "lentissimo" is indicated in a musical composition, it typically suggests a tempo range of 20 to 40 beats per minute (BPM). This tempo choice creates a measured and unhurried rhythm, allowing each note to resonate fully. The slow pace imparts a sense of tranquility, contemplation, and serenity to the music. "Lentissimo" passages are often used to evoke emotions of introspection, beauty, and calmness.
Similar Terms and Notation
There are other tempo markings that indicate slow tempos in music. Some of these include "lento" (slow), "adagio" (quite slow), and "larghetto" (somewhat slow) However, "lentissimo" specifically denotes an even slower tempo than these terms. In sheet music, "lentissimo" is usually represented as the word itself or the indication "very slow" or "extremely slow".
Examples
One example of a musical composition that includes a "lentissimo" tempo marking is the third movement of Beethoven's String Quartet No. 16. In this piece, the score is typically marked "lento assai," meaning "very slowly".
Conclusion
In summary, "lentissimo" is an Italian musical term that signifies an extremely slow tempo in music. It instructs performers to play a passage or piece at a very slow pace, allowing for a measured and unhurried rhythm. This tempo choice imparts a sense of tranquility, contemplation, and serenity to the music, and it is often used to evoke emotions of introspection, beauty, and calmness.
An extremely slow tempo marking not quite as slow as Larghissimo. Lentissimo is around 40 beats per minute.
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