rallentando
Gradually slowing down, similar to ritardando.
In Depth
Rallentando (abbreviated rall.) means gradually slowing down, essentially synonymous with ritardando. Some musicians draw a subtle distinction: rallentando suggests a broader, more deliberate slowing, while ritardando can be lighter. In practice, the two terms are used interchangeably. A well-executed rallentando requires the entire ensemble to slow down together, guided by the conductor or the lead player. The slowing should feel natural and musical, not mechanical. Rallentando is commonly used approaching the end of a piece or section, at fermatas, and before important structural moments like the return of a main theme.
Some conductors distinguish between rallentando and ritardando by making rallentando more gradual and ritardando more sudden, but there is no universal agreement on this distinction.
Related Terms
More in Tempo
Browse alla tempo
Return to the original tempo after a deviation.
accelerando
A gradual increase in tempo.
adagio
A slow, leisurely tempo, typically 66-76 BPM.
agitato
Agitated; restless and hurried in character.
alla breve
Cut time; two half-note beats per measure, giving a faster feel.
allegretto
A moderately fast tempo, slightly slower than allegro.
allegro
A fast, lively tempo, typically 120-156 BPM.
andante
A walking pace tempo, typically 76-108 BPM.