Calmando
Definition. Calming — gradually becoming calm, settling down, easing.
Detailed Explanation
Calmando is Italian for ‘calming’. As a performance direction it instructs the performer to gradually settle the music — to ease tension, slow agitation, calm the atmosphere. The marking is dynamic in nature: it implies a transition from a more agitated state to a calmer one.
The character is one of de-escalation. Calmando passages typically follow a more agitated section and lead into a quieter, calmer one. Tempo may slightly relax; dynamics may gradually soften; articulation may become smoother. The marking is the opposite of stringendo (pressing forward) or incalzando (pressing on).
The direction is found throughout Romantic and post-Romantic music. Composers reach for calmando when they want a transition out of turbulence into peace — often as a structural device leading to a contrasting calm section.
Etymology
Italian, gerund of calmare (‘to calm’), from calma (‘calm’), from Late Latin cauma (‘heat of midday’, hence rest).
In Practice
Make the transition gradual. Tempo eases slightly; dynamics soften; articulation smooths. The audience should feel the music settling, not stopping.
Notable Examples
- Various — Transitional passages (common calmando character)
Related Terms
Opposite Of
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Calmando mean in music?
Calming — gradually becoming calm, settling down, easing.
Where does the word Calmando come from?
Italian, gerund of calmare (‘to calm’), from calma (‘calm’), from Late Latin cauma (‘heat of midday’, hence rest).
How is Calmando performed in practice?
Make the transition gradual. Tempo eases slightly; dynamics soften; articulation smooths. The audience should feel the music settling, not stopping.
What musical terms are related to Calmando?
Related terms include: Tranquillo, Sereno, Dolce, Morendo.
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