Mano Sinistra
Definition. Left hand — instruction to play with the left hand, abbreviated *m.s.* or *l.h.*
Detailed Explanation
Mano sinistra, abbreviated m.s. or l.h. (left hand), is Italian for ‘left hand’. As a piano notation direction it instructs the player to play a particular passage with the left hand. The marking is the natural counterpart to m.d. (right hand).
In standard piano notation, the lower staff (bass clef) is typically played by the left hand. But many passages cross staves or require non-standard hand assignments — perhaps the left hand should play a melody normally assigned to the right hand, or the left hand should reach into the upper register. The m.s./m.d. markings clarify these distributions.
The direction is essential in left-hand-only repertoire (works for the left hand alone, like Ravel’s Concerto for the Left Hand) and in passages where left-hand virtuosity is required to project the upper voice.
Etymology
Italian, ‘left hand’ — mano (‘hand’) + sinistra (‘left’).
In Practice
Use the indicated hand. The assignment may seem unnatural at first; the composer has reasons. Practice the indicated fingering until it becomes natural.
Notable Examples
- Ravel — Concerto for the Left Hand (entirely m.s.)
- Various keyboard music — Common usage (specific hand assignments)
Related Terms
Opposite Of
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Mano Sinistra mean in music?
Left hand — instruction to play with the left hand, abbreviated m.s. or l.h.
Where does the word Mano Sinistra come from?
Italian, ‘left hand’ — mano (‘hand’) + sinistra (‘left’).
How is Mano Sinistra performed in practice?
Use the indicated hand. The assignment may seem unnatural at first; the composer has reasons. Practice the indicated fingering until it becomes natural.
What are common abbreviations for Mano Sinistra?
Mano Sinistra is commonly abbreviated as m.s., l.h..
What musical terms are related to Mano Sinistra?
Related terms include: Mano Destra.
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