Slower

As Printed on a Score

A relative tempo word printed above the staff at the bar where the new speed begins, often qualified (a little slower, much slower). It holds until the next tempo direction, a tempo, or a word such as as before.

How Composers Use It

The English più lento or meno mosso, for an immediate change; for a gradual one write gradually slower or rit. Because it is relative, its meaning depends on the preceding tempo, so check it still makes sense if an earlier tempo changes in revision. Mark the return explicitly rather than leaving the slower tempo to wear off.

Related Terms