Grave
Slow and solemn
"Grave" is an Italian musical term that translates to "slow and solemn" or "grave" in English. It is a marking used to indicate that a musical piece should be performed at a very slow tempo with a solemn and weighty character. It is usually played at a tempo of 20 to 40 beats per minute.
"Grave" is an indication typically used to describe the tempo and character of a piece of music. It signifies that the music should be performed at an extremely slow pace, creating a sense of heaviness and contemplation in the rhythm. This marking is often represented on sheet music as the word "grave" or "slow and solemn".
Performers are expected to play at a very slow tempo, allowing each note to be fully expressed. This style of performance creates a feeling of seriousness and gravity, often used to convey emotions of deep thought, sadness, or solemnity. Despite the slow pace, the performance should be infused with intense emotion, allowing each note to deeply resonate with the audience's emotions.
The use of "Grave" may vary based on the composer's intent. It can create profound emotions in mournful pieces or establish a sense of solemnity in more serious contexts. In any case, "Grave" emphasizes a slow tempo and a serious emotional quality in the music.
Example of Grave
Common Tempo Markings
Tempo Marking | bpm | Meaning |
Grave | 20 - 40 bpm | Slow and solemn |
Lento | 40 - 60 bpm | Slow |
Largo | 40 - 60 bpm | Slow and broad |
Larghetto | 60 - 66 bpm | Rather broadly |
Adagio | 66 - 76 bpm | Slow and stately |
Adagietto | 70 - 80 bpm | Slightly faster than adagio |
Andante | 72 - 76 bpm | Walking pace |
Andante moderato | 92 - 98 bpm | Moderate walking pace |
Moderato | 108 - 120 bpm | At a moderate tempo |
Allegretto | 112 - 120 bpm | Moderately fast |
Allegro moderato | 116 - 120 bpm | Moderately quick |
Allegro | 120 - 156 bpm | Fast and lively |
Vivace | 156 - 176 bpm | Fast and lively |
Allegro vivace | 172 - 176 bpm | Very fast and lively |
Presto | 168 - 200 bpm | Quickly |
Prestissimo | 200+ bpm | As fast as possible |