What does the symbol "ritardando" mean?*1 pointA.Getting fastB.Sustain tempoC.Getting SlowD.Playfully

Understanding "Ritardando"

The term "ritardando" is an Italian musical term that indicates a gradual slowing down of the tempo. It instructs the performers to decrease the speed of the music over a passage. Therefore, among the options provided:

1. A. Getting fast - This is incorrect as "ritardando" implies slowing down, not speeding up.
2. B. Sustain tempo - This is also incorrect since "ritardando" suggests a change in tempo rather than maintaining it.
3. C. Getting Slow - This is the correct interpretation of "ritardando," as it means to gradually slow down.
4. D. Playfully - This is incorrect as it does not relate to the tempo changes associated with "ritardando."

Final Answer

C. Getting Slow