Which term means a gradual slowing down (abbreviation: rall.)?

Which term means a gradual slowing down (abbreviation: rall.)?

• A. Rallentando
• B. Ritardando
• C. Rubato
• D. Grave

Answer: (A)

Gradual slowing is shown by the term rallentando. When you see rall. in a score, you’re meant to ease the tempo down steadily over the coming bars, often moving toward a new, slower tempo or simply relaxing the pulse as the phrase ends. This differs from rubato, which is flexible, expressive timing without a fixed plan to slow down, and from grave, which marks a overall slow, solemn pace rather than a deliberate deceleration. Ritardando also means to slow down, but the abbreviation given points to rallentando, the exact term in this case.

Gradual slowing is shown by the term rallentando. When you see rall. in a score, you’re meant to ease the tempo down steadily over the coming bars, often moving toward a new, slower tempo or simply relaxing the pulse as the phrase ends. This differs from rubato, which is flexible, expressive timing without a fixed plan to slow down, and from grave, which marks a overall slow, solemn pace rather than a deliberate deceleration. Ritardando also means to slow down, but the abbreviation given points to rallentando, the exact term in this case.