Sostenuto

As Printed on a Score

Printed in two roles: as part of a tempo heading (Adagio sostenuto, Andante sostenuto, Allegro sostenuto), where it tempers the speed, and mid-movement as sost. or sosten. over a passage, asking for held, slightly broadened playing until a tempo or a new word. The sostenuto pedal of a modern grand is a separate, mechanical instruction.

Abbreviations: sost., sosten.

How Composers Use It

Sostenuto asks for sustained, connected playing with weight on every note. It implies a slight slowing and broadening. Use it for noble, hymn-like passages that need dignity and breadth.

Example

Beethoven, Piano Sonata No. 14 in C-sharp minor, Op. 27 No. 2 (“Moonlight”), first movement, m. 1: “Adagio sostenuto”, printed with “sempre pianissimo e senza sordini” — slow, sustained and very soft, with the dampers raised.

Related Terms