Larghetto
Definition. A diminutive of largo — slightly faster, less ceremonial. Roughly 60–66 BPM.
Detailed Explanation
Larghetto is the diminutive of largo, marking music as ‘slightly faster than largo’ — and slightly less broad in character. Conventional metronome charts place it around 60–66 BPM, between largo and adagio.
Larghetto retains some of largo’s breadth and dignity, but with a more lyrical, flowing character. It is well suited to slow movements that want grace rather than ceremony — Chopin’s Larghetto in the F minor Piano Concerto is a classic example, all lyrical line and tender phrasing.
The marking is also common in operatic ariosos and slow arias of the 18th century, where it provides space for the voice without freezing the dramatic action. Mozart, Handel, and their contemporaries use larghetto frequently.
Etymology
Italian, diminutive of largo. The -etto suffix makes the adjective ‘a little largo’.
In Practice
Sing the line. Larghetto wants flow, not weight. The breadth of largo gives way to a lyrical breath, but the tempo remains stately.
Notable Examples
- Chopin — Piano Concerto No. 2 in F minor (second movement Larghetto)
- Mozart — Clarinet Concerto, K. 622 (second movement Adagio (often performed as larghetto))
Related Terms
Opposite Of
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Larghetto mean in music?
A diminutive of largo — slightly faster, less ceremonial. Roughly 60–66 BPM.
Where does the word Larghetto come from?
Italian, diminutive of largo. The -etto suffix makes the adjective ‘a little largo’.
How is Larghetto performed in practice?
Sing the line. Larghetto wants flow, not weight. The breadth of largo gives way to a lyrical breath, but the tempo remains stately.
What musical terms are related to Larghetto?
Related terms include: Largo, Larghissimo, Adagio, Andante.
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