Moderately slow

As Printed on a Score

Printed above the first system as a tempo heading, often with a metronome mark, and held until the next tempo word. It is common in English-language songs and hymn settings, standing roughly where Andante or Andante moderato would in Italian.

How Composers Use It

A walking-to-strolling pace that leaves room for lyrical phrasing without the weight of slow. Because the words describe a range, add a metronome figure when ensemble or word-setting depends on the speed. Pair it with a character word (Moderately slow, tenderly) rather than piling on further tempo qualifiers.

Related Terms