Langsamer

As Printed on a Score

Printed above the staff where the new, slower tempo begins — often right after a ritard. that leads into it — and in force until the next tempo word. Capitalised at a section, lower-case mid-phrase. Unlike ritardando it is a new tempo, not a gradual slowing; immer langsamer makes it a continuing process.

How Composers Use It

The German meno mosso: a step down to a new pulse, measured against the music just before. Precede it with a ritard. if the change should be eased in, or leave it bare for a sudden shift. Because it is relative, a sequence of Langsamer markings drifts ever slower unless you restore the tempo with Tempo I or Im Tempo.

Example

Schumann, Myrthen, Op. 25, No. 4, “Jemand”, voice, m. 26: “Langsamer”, at p, one bar after a ritard.

Related Terms