Col canto

As Printed on a Score

Printed over an accompaniment part where it must follow the singer’s rubato; it lasts until a tempo or another tempo word restores a steady beat. Colla voce and colla parte say the same.

How Composers Use It

Use it where the singer needs freedom — a cadenza-like phrase, a held climax, a recitative-flavoured line — so pianist or orchestra waits and follows instead of keeping strict time. It belongs in the accompanying parts, not the vocal line. Mark the return to tempo clearly, or the players will keep waiting.

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