IR and Raman spectra of Ca2MgSi2O7, Ca2ZnSi2O7 and Sr2MgSi2O7 oriented single crystals and powders have been measured. The temperature dependence of phonons has been established in the 4–650K range. Discussion of the results has been performed on the basis of factor group approach for the tetragonal P4̄21m (D2d3) space group with Z=2. The assignment of the bands observed to the internal and external modes has been made on their polarization behaviour, phonon energy calculations and literature data. The evidences of the LO–TO splitting and commensurate (C) to incommensurate (IC) as well as incommensurate (IC) to normal (N) phase transitions have been found. As a representative example, the results obtained for the spontaneous Raman scattering have also been used in the discussion of the stimulated Raman spectra of Ca2ZnSi2O7. Raman and IR spectra of Ca2MgSi2O7, Ca2ZnSi2O7, Sr2MgSi2O7 have been measured. The temperature dependence of phonons has been established in the 4–650K range. The evidences of the LO-TO splitting and commensurate (C) to incommensurate (IC) as well as incommensurate (IC) to normal (N) phase transitions have been found. Display omitted ► Polarized IR and Raman spectra of pyrosilicates single crystals have been studied. ► Temperature dependence of the phonon bands and LO–TO splitting have been analysed. ► Commensurate to incommensurate and to normal phase have been evidenced in the spectra. ► Phonon calculations have been used in assignment of the normal modes. ► Stimulated Raman spectra of Ca2ZnSi2O7 crystal have been measured and analysed.