Expressively

As Printed on a Score

Printed above a melodic line or solo part where the expressive playing begins (expressively, with expression), and in force until a new character word. It is the English form of espressivo (espr.).

How Composers Use It

Use it to single out a line that should lead, with flexible phrasing and colour. It means most when it is rare: if every line is expressive, none stands out. In orchestral writing, mark it on the line you want heard and lower the dynamics of the accompaniment rather than relying on the word alone.

Related Terms