Nachgebend

As Printed on a Score

Printed above the vocal line or staff where the tempo should yield, usually at the end of a phrase; it lasts until a return to tempo, written or implied by the next phrase.

How Composers Use It

Yielding, giving way — a gentle easing of the tempo, like cedendo or a soft rallentando, often at a cadence or a tender word. It suggests flexibility rather than a planned slowing. Use it for a breath of rubato at phrase ends, and mark the return if the next phrase must be back in time.

Example

Schubert, Heidenröslein, D. 257 (Op. 3 No. 3), voice, m. 11: “nachgebend”, in a song headed “Lieblich”.

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