About Largo
Broad and dignified. Often chosen for lyrical slow movements where the melody must breathe.
Every tempo in the Largo range
Pieces you may already know at Largo
The quickest way to feel a tempo is to hum a piece written at it. These carry the marking Largo in the score, or are almost always played in its range.
- "Ombra mai fu" (Xerxes) — Handel
The piece most people simply call "Handel's Largo".
- Symphony No. 9 "From the New World", 2nd movement — Dvořák
The Largo whose cor anglais tune became the song "Goin' Home".
- Prelude Op. 28 No. 20 in C minor — Chopin
Thirteen bars of Largo chords — a favourite for learning to hold a slow pulse.
- Keyboard Concerto in F minor BWV 1056, 2nd movement — Bach
Known as the "Arioso"; a Largo that still moves in gentle quavers.
In today's music: Ambient and some slow ballads live here (around 50–60 BPM). Most people's resting heartbeat sits in this range.
Questions
What BPM is Largo?
Largo is usually given as about 60 BPM, with 53 BPM a typical middle value. Editions and traditions differ, so treat the range as a guide.
What does Largo mean?
Broadly. Broad and dignified. Often chosen for lyrical slow movements where the melody must breathe.
How do I practise a Largo passage?
Start near 23–27 BPM so the notes are accurate, then step up by about 5 BPM until you reach the marked tempo.
Tempo ranges are approximate and differ between editions, periods and performers.