Markig

As Printed on a Score

Printed above a melodic line, usually together with kräftig or another word of strength (“Sehr kräftig, markig”). It describes the passage it introduces until another character word follows.

How Composers Use It

Full of marrow: vigorous, sinewy, firm-toned — strength with a core rather than bluster. In string writing it suggests weighty bow pressure and firm attacks. Bruckner joins it to kräftig for a broad, strong melodic idea, with a low string choice for depth; pair it with f or ff.

Example

Bruckner, Symphony No. 5, second movement (Adagio), m. 31: “(Sehr kräftig, markig)”, where the violins are also marked “G Saite anfangs”.

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