Larghetto: Meaning, Speed and Practice Tools
Larghetto (A little broad, not as slow as Largo) covers 55–64 BPM in the classical tempo tradition.Reasonably broad, slightly quicker than Largo.
How fast is Larghetto in BPM?
Larghetto is the diminutive of Largo — the same idea, a little lighter. It sits between 55 and 64 BPM: still spacious and lyrical, but with enough forward motion that the music moves. You will find it on slow movements that want to feel graceful rather than stately, and it is a comfortable tempo for melodic singing instruments.
Larghetto in classical music
- •Flowing and graceful rather than weighty
- •Common in slow movements that want warmth without gravity
- •Suits singing lines on violin, flute, cello and voice
- •Often paired with cantabile or con moto directions
- •A common default for slow-theme introductions in sonata form
Famous pieces in Larghetto
Symphony No. 40 (2nd mvt.)
W. A. Mozart (1788)
A singing Larghetto theme over a gently rocking accompaniment.
Violin Concerto in E minor (2nd mvt.)
Antonio Vivaldi (1721)
Warm, relaxed and unmistakably vocal.
Piano Sonata No. 8 "Pathétique" (2nd mvt.)
Ludwig van Beethoven (1798)
A Larghetto Adagio cantabile that rewards delicate touch.
Try the Larghetto metronome
Try Larghetto here — set to 60 BPM, limited to 55–64 BPM for this marking.
How to practise at Larghetto
Larghetto is a good tempo for developing singing tone. Practise at this tempo and record yourself — the giveaway of a rushed Larghetto is the last note of each phrase landing slightly early. Keep the accompaniment light and let the melody do the work. On guitar, watch that the sustain does not blot out the notes underneath.
Related markings
Questions
What is the difference between Largo and Larghetto?
Larghetto is slightly faster (55–64 BPM) and lighter in character than Largo (41–54 BPM).
Is Larghetto slower than Adagio?
Yes. Larghetto tops out around 64 BPM, while Adagio starts at 65.
How do I play Larghetto well?
Keep the pulse even, let the melody project, and resist speeding up as the phrase approaches its end.
What is Larghetto good for practising?
It is ideal for developing a singing, connected tone — the tempo is slow enough to hear your balance and steady enough to keep moving.
All markings
Browse every Italian tempo marking from Larghissimo to Ultra Presto: