Expressive markings are performance directions to players in an orchestra (or, most commonly in an orchestra, but also in a marching band or concert band). These markings dictate the mood, character or style the composer or arranger would like to convey. Maybe I’m the only composer who doesn’t have these all memorized, and likes to look at a list when it comes time in the process to add expression markings… but I doubt it.

There are three lists that I use as reference, and I have compiled them together for you here. With terms like “performance” and “expression”, finding a good list in a Google search can be problematic, and wikipedia will find you an impractical list of every term ever used in music. This list is by no means a definitive one. It is simply a quick-reference for commonly used performance markings to convey what your musical intention is.

If you want a specific term that perfectly describes your intention, but you can’t find in this list, never shy away from using English.never shy away from using English. Italian is great and traditional, but the point is not to have your music look all suave nor is it to test the musical vocabulary of your players. What’s important is to communicate your intentions in the simplest, easiest way possible. Often times that will mean just putting your intention in plain English.

Performance directions should always be in italic , unless they appear above the staff as part of a tempo mark. In instrumental lines, these directions should be placed below the staff. In vocal or choral music, place them above the staff (a practice that comes from preventing overlapping on the printed lyrics). In keyboard music, place the directions between the two staves of the grand staff.