Definition
calando
adverb
- In music, gradually becoming softer and slower.
Usage: musical direction; Italian origin; often abbreviated as 'cal.' in sheet music
Examples
- The conductor instructed the orchestra to play calando at the end of the movement.
- The final measures were marked calando, creating a gentle fade-out.
- As the piece progressed, the tempo became calando, slowing and softening together.
- The violins played calando during the closing section of the symphony.