Mezza voce

As Printed on a Score

Printed above a vocal line or below an instrumental staff, often beside a dynamic (p mezza voce) or a character word — mezza voce e legato, mezza voce grazioso — and sometimes abbreviated m.v. It lasts for the passage until a new dynamic or character word. Brahms marks the cello melody of his Third Symphony’s third movement p with mezza voce and espressivo.

Abbreviations: m.v.

Also spelled: mezzo voce

How Composers Use It

Mezza voce asks for controlled, restrained tone quality rather than a specific volume level. Use it when you want the sound to be present but veiled — the performer holds back, creating a sense of reserve or contained emotion.

Example

Verdi marks mezza voce in many of his arias for moments of tender confession or private reflection, distinguishing it from full-throated singing.

Related Terms