Mezza voce grazioso

As Printed on a Score

Printed above the staff of the part carrying the melody, usually at a soft dynamic, and often repeated in each part that takes the tune; it lasts for the phrase or theme it introduces.

How Composers Use It

Mezza voce sets a restrained, intimate volume and tone; grazioso adds lightness and charm. Together they ask for a gracious melody held back rather than projected — a second theme that should sound gentle and unforced. Marking every part that shares the tune keeps the colour consistent as it passes around the orchestra.

Example

Brahms, Symphony No. 3 in F major, Op. 90, first movement, clarinet 1, m. 36: “mezza voce grazioso”, also in the bassoons; oboe 1 and the violas take up the same words at m. 40.

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