Großer Ton

As Printed on a Score

Printed over a string or solo part; Mahler often joins it to a string choice (“G-Saite, grosser Ton.”). It colours the phrase it introduces and lasts until another character or dynamic word changes the sound.

Also spelled: grosser Ton

How Composers Use It

Asks for a broad, rich tone: more bow weight and contact, generous vibrato, every note fully sounded. It is a quality rather than a level, so it can sit at f or even p; at f it adds intensity without forcing. Combined with a lower string (G-Saite) it gives the dark, intense violin sound Mahler favours for impassioned melodies.

Example

Mahler, Symphony No. 5, fourth movement (Adagietto), first violins, m. 38: “grosser Ton.” at f, with a G-string direction in the same bar.

Related Terms