Mus. [It. = broad.] A term indicating that a passage is to be rendered in slow time and with a broad, dignified treatment. Also transf.
1683. Purcell, 3-Pt. Sonnatas, To Rdr. (1893). Presto Largo, Poco Largo, or Largo by it self.
1724. [see GRAVE a.2].
1753. Chambers, Cycl. Supp., Largo, in the Italian music, a slow movement, one degree quicker than grave and two than adagio.
1866. Geo. Eliot, F. Holt, I. xiii. 279. The gathering excitement of speech gave more and more energy to his manner … he … ended with his deepest-toned largo, keeping his hands clasped behind him.
