Practicing with a metronome will help you maintain a steady tempo and precise rhythm, much like a ruler helps an artist draw straight lines. Just as artists erase their guidelines for a clean final drawing, you’ll eventually want to perform your piece without the metronome.

If you’re ready to follow this advice but don’t know where to start, this article is for you!

1. Set a Tempo

The first step is to set your metronome at the tempo (or speed) you want to play.

You’ll have to choose a number corresponding to the number of beats per minute (BPM) your metronome will click at. The higher the BPM number, the faster the metronome will click.

When practicing a new piece of music, start slow and gradually increase the speed as you get more and more competent.

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2. Find Your Goal Tempo

Before you decide what tempo you’ll practice at, it’s a good idea to get a sense of how fast the music should be played in a performance.

Your music should include a tempo marking — whether it’s a specific BPM or a descriptive word that encompasses a range of BPM.

Some tempo markings will include both!

Here are some common tempo descriptions and their BPMs:

• Larghissimo — extremely slow (< 24 BPM)
• Grave — very slow, solemnly (25–45 BPM)
• Largo — broadly (40–60 BPM)
• Lento — slowly (45–60 BPM)
• Adagio — slowly, with great expression (66–76 BPM)
• Andante — at a walking pace (76–108 BPM)
• Andantino — slightly faster than andante (80–108 BPM)
• Moderato — at a moderate speed (98–112 BPM)
• Allegro — fast, quickly, and bright (120–156 BPM)
• Vivace — lively and fast (156–176 BPM)
• Presto — very, very fast (168–200 BPM)

3. It’s Okay (Even Recommended!) to Start Slow

Remember that the written tempo is the goal, but you do not have to be able to play at this speed right away!

If you are comfortable playing at the written speed, go for it! However, if the music is really fast, it’s recommended to start at a slower tempo.

Lining up your notes and rhythms with the metronome at a slower speed is way more helpful than playing at full speed right away. As you get comfortable, you can gradually increase the tempo to the written speed.

4. Select How Many Beats (Optional)

Some metronomes will allow you to choose how many beats are in a measure, so it can help you keep track of each measure.

How many beats you set the metronome to will depend on the time signature of the piece.

If your piece is in 4/4, you can set the metronome at four beats. It can even emphasize the first of every four beats. This way, you can keep track of the beginnings of each measure as you’re playing.

Next: Read Our Post on the 10 Most Important Traits of Good Musicians.

5. Feel the Beat

Before you start playing, it’s important to take some time to feel the beat.

Listen to a few metronome clicks, and maybe even tap along to the metronome with your hands or feet.

Internalizing the pulse will help you stay together with the metronome while you play. It’s also important for when you take the metronome out of the equation later.

6. Line Up Your Rhythms

When practicing with a metronome, it’s helpful to divide your music into sections.

The length of a section should depend on how comfortable you are with the music — it could be one phrase or until the next tempo change.

As you play, listen to make sure your beats are always lining up with the metronome. If you get off from the metronome, stop and try the section again.

Make sure you can play each section comfortably with a metronome before bumping up the speed or moving on to the next section.

7. Subdivide

Sometimes, there will be so many small rhythms within a beat that it’s hard to line them up with the normal metronome clicks. In this case, you can subdivide.

Subdivision is the splitting of beats into smaller units. For instance, if you have a bunch of 16th notes to play, you can try setting your metronome to the eighth note rather than the quarter note.

This will double the amount of metronome clicks, giving you more opportunities to check and stay aligned.

Once you can easily play a section with the subdivisions, it should be much easier to go back to playing with the big beats! 

8. Record Yourself

A great tip to make sure you are truly lined up with the metronome is to record yourself playing with the metronome and listen back. This helps you catch details you might miss while focusing on playing.

It’s also useful for checking your timing once you play without the metronome. You can tap along to your recording or use the metronome separately to verify your tempo and rhythms.

If there’s a section that isn’t quite right, practice that section with the metronome some more.

9. Be Patient!

Remember that practicing with a metronome is not a one-and-done deal! It takes repetition to get good at playing along with the metronome, and you have to be patient with gradual tempo increases.

Even once you can play a piece at full tempo without the metronome, you may have to go back and touch up some sections with it once in a while.

Ready to Get Started?

Now that you know how to practice with a metronome, you can get started using our online metronome!

Our metronome includes all the features mentioned in this article, including emphasizing downbeats and subdivisions.

The acronym stands for “beats per minute.” Like the name suggests, BPM is how many beats you can fit in a minute.

With that in mind, can you figure out how many BPM the seconds hand on a clock moves at? 

There are 60 seconds in one minute, so the seconds hand moves at 60 BPM.

You can think of BPM like a pie. The more slices you want to cut out of a pie, the smaller each slice has to be. Likewise, the more beats you want to fit into a minute, the smaller the amount of time each beat has to be.

So a higher BPM means a faster tempo, and a lower BPM means a slower tempo.

What Is Tempo?

To fully understand BPM, it will help to have a basic understanding of tempo. Tempo is the word we use to describe the speed at which a passage of music is or should be played. 

Should it be played at a fast, medium, or slow tempo? 

The faster the tempo, the more beats per minute there will be. And vice versa — the slower the tempo, the fewer beats per minute there will be.

How BPM Is Marked In Music 

If a composer wants you to play their piece at a specific BPM, they will mark it like this:

Type of note (quarter note, half note, etc.) = the BPM number

For example:

This marking tells us that there should be 70 quarter-note beats played in one minute.

The BPM Of Common Tempo Markings

Instead of writing an exact BPM, a composer may use a word to describe the tempo they want. This is because when these composers were composing, there was no accurate way to work out the BPM they wanted.

It wasn’t until the metronome was invented in 1815 that they were able to be more specific about their desired tempo.

These tempo markings are often written in Italian, and they encompass a range of BPM. Here are some common tempo markings and their BPMs:

• Larghissimo — extremely slow (< 24 BPM)
• Grave — very slow, solemnly (25-45 BPM)
• Largo — broadly (40-60 BPM)
• Lento — slowly (45-60 BPM)
• Adagio — slowly, with great expression (66-76 BPM)
• Andante — at a walking pace (76-108 BPM)
• Andantino — slightly faster than andante (80-108 BPM)
• Moderato — at a moderate speed (98-112 BPM)
• Allegro — fast, quickly, and bright (120-156 BPM)
• Vivace — lively and fast (156-176 BPM)
• Presto — very, very fast (168-200 BPM)

Working With A Metronome

To work out the BPM of a piece of music, you are going to need a metronome. This is a tool that can be set to your desired BPM and will tick at that speed. Think of it like a measuring tape for time. 

You can use a metronome to help you play at a certain tempo or to find the tempo of a piece of music you hear.

Nowadays, there are lots of options, but the most convenient are online metronomes.

How To Find A Song’s BPM

You can find a song’s BPM by matching the beat to a metronome. Many metronome apps also have a function that will tell you the BPM if you tap along to the beat.

If you want to get a feel for how different BPMs sound, you can go to our online metronome and set the BPM to different speeds!

Summing Up

We hope that helped make a bit more sense of what exactly BPM is in music. It’s a very important part of music as the speed a song is played can dramatically affect the entire personality of the piece.

If you have any questions about things that we haven’t covered, feel free to get in touch, and we’ll get back to you.

When you see a piece of music marked as allegretto, it’s an invitation to play it with a light and graceful touch. It’s faster than andante (walking pace), but not as rapid as allegro.

Other terms used to describe allegretto are “fluid,” “lively,” “breezy,” and “merry.” It’s the perfect tempo for music that aims to be lively and engaging without overstepping into the realm of hurried or frantic.

How Fast Is Allegretto?

So we know that allegretto translates to “moderately fast” in Italian, but what does that really mean in terms of tempo? One person’s interpretation of moderately fast will be different from the next.

To get a more concrete idea, we can turn to our trusty metronome to get a more accurate range of tempo.

Allegretto generally falls within the range of 102 – 120 BPM (beats per minute). This range gives musicians a practical guideline while still allowing for some personal touch and interpretation.

Historical Context And Etymology Of Allegretto

Deriving from the Italian word “allegro,” which means “joyful” or “lively,” allegretto is affectionately modified with the diminutive “-etto” suffix, translating to “a little lively.”

This captures the essence of allegretto perfectly — it’s lively enough to keep the music engaging, yet restrained enough to maintain a sense of ease and flow.

Its first use in a musical context dates back to 1740 as a tempo marking that was quicker than andante, but not as quick as allegro.

It was during this time, as music transitioned from the Baroque era to the classical era, that allegretto became particularly popular in symphonies and string quartets, where it allowed for a playful and lively, yet controlled and elegant musical narrative.

Related Terms To Allegretto

• Andante: A moderately slow tempo, translating to “walking pace.” It’s more relaxed than allegretto, offering a calm, steady rhythm (56 – 108 BPM).
• Andantino: Often slightly faster than andante but can also mean a bit slower than allegretto, offering a subtly quicker, yet gentle pace (80 – 108 BPM).
• Moderato: This tempo means “moderate.” It’s a middle-ground pace, situated between andante and allegretto — neither too slow nor too fast (108 – 120 BPM).
• Allegro: The term means “fast and bright” or “joyful.” It’s faster and more spirited than allegretto, characterized by a lively energy (120 – 156 BPM).
• Allegro ma non troppo: Translates to “fast but not too much,” similar to allegretto in suggesting a lively tempo with a bit of restraint.
• Allegro moderato: A moderated version of allegro, this tempo is brisker than allegretto and andante, but not as quick as pure allegro (116 – 120 BPM).
• Allegretto vivace: Merges the moderate speed of allegretto with the liveliness of vivace, resulting in a tempo that is both lively and moderately fast.
• Allegro con brio: Meaning “fast with vigor,” it suggests a lively approach to the fast tempo.

Examples Of Allegretto Tempo Music

To help you get a better idea of allegretto, here are a few examples of music pieces marked by this tempo.

“Symphony No. 7 In A Major, Op. 92 (2nd Movement)” By Ludwig Van Beethoven

Up first, we have the wonderful second movement of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7, which is one of the most famous examples of allegretto in classical music.

Known for its rhythmic motif and somber and simple yet beautiful melody, it showcases the balance and grace of the allegretto tempo.

“Palladio – Allegretto” By Karl Jenkins

Karl Jenkins’ “Palladio – Allegretto” is a standout piece in contemporary classical music, renowned for its rhythmic and captivating melody.

This composition gained widespread recognition and popularity through its use in the famous De Beers diamond advertising campaign.

The Allegretto section, in particular, is celebrated for its powerful and rhythmic elegance, masterfully blending contemporary sensibilities with classical form.

“Symphony No. 6 In F Major, Op. 68 ‘Pastoral’ (5th Movement)” By Ludwig Van Beethoven

And finally, another piece by Beethoven, his Symphony No. 6 in F Major, known as the “Pastoral Symphony,” the 5th movement, marked allegretto. This movement is a beautiful conclusion to the symphony, depicting the calm and joyous atmosphere following a storm.

The allegretto tempo in this movement is perfectly suited to convey a sense of relief and gratitude. Beethoven’s composition here masterfully evokes the pastoral scenes he cherished, with a gentle yet uplifting melody that reflects the pastoral symphony’s overall celebration of nature.

So if you come across a piece of music marked as moderato, it implies that the piece should be played at a medium pace, not too fast and not too slow. It’s the Goldilocks of tempos — just right!

Other words that are often used to describe moderato include “controlled,” “balanced,” “measured,” “steady,” or “even-paced.”

How Fast Is Moderato?

We’ve established that moderato means to play moderately fast, but what does that actually mean in terms of tempo? One person’s interpretation of moderate will be completely different from another’s.

To move beyond subjective interpretations, we can use a metronome to put a more concrete number on how fast this tempo actually is.

Generally, the tempo for moderato is somewhere between 108 and 120 BPM (beats per minute). This range is like the comfortable pace of a relaxed jog — not too slow, yet not too fast.

Historical Context And Etymology Of Moderato

As we covered earlier, the term moderato finds its roots in the Italian word “moderato,” meaning “moderate” or “measured.” This origin aptly reflects the essence of the tempo — a balanced, controlled pace that is neither too fast nor too slow, embodying a sense of moderation in musical expression.

The introduction of moderato into musical terminology is believed to have occurred around the early Classical era, which began in the mid-18th century. This period marked a shift from the ornate and complex compositions of the Baroque era to a more refined and balanced style.

Related Terms To Moderato

• Andante Moderato: Slightly faster than andante, this term combines the moderate pace of moderato with the walking speed of andante (80 – 108 BPM).
• Allegro moderato: A tempo that is moderately fast; it’s a bit quicker than moderato but not as fast as a full allegro (116 – 120 BPM).
• Moderato con moto: Translating to “moderate with motion,” this indicates a tempo that is moderate yet with a noticeable forward movement.
• Moderato cantabile: Meaning “moderately in a singing style,” this tempo combines a moderate pace with a lyrical, melodic quality.
• Moderato assai: Essentially “quite moderate,” suggesting a tempo that is moderate but perhaps leaning towards a slightly brisker pace.
• Moderato maestoso: Combining moderato with a majestic feel, indicating a moderate pace that is grand and dignified.
• Moderato vivace: A blend of moderato and vivace, this indicates a tempo that is moderately fast with a lively character.
• Moderato molto: Meaning “very moderate,” this suggests a tempo that is emphatically moderate, perhaps slightly more restrained than standard moderato.

Examples Of Music At Moderato Tempo

Finally, here are some examples of music that are marked as moderato tempo.

“Jesu, Joy Of Man’s Desiring” By Johann Sebastian Bach

Bach’s “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” is a revered choral piece that often features a moderato tempo. This composition, known for its serene and uplifting melody, exemplifies Bach’s mastery in creating a harmonious and meditative atmosphere.

The piece is frequently played at weddings and other solemn occasions, where its moderate pace adds to the elegance and grace of the event.

The Minuet From Don Giovanni By Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

The minuet from Mozart’s opera Don Giovanni is a splendid example of music set in a moderato tempo. This piece, characterized by its elegant and refined melodies, showcases the classical grace and balance typical of Mozart’s compositions.

Played at a moderate pace, this minuet provides a moment of poise and sophistication within the dramatic context of the opera, reflecting the social dances and customs of the era.

“Piano Concerto No. 2, Op. 18 I. Moderato” By Sergei Rachmaninoff

Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2, Op. 18 I. Moderato is a monumental work in the piano concerto repertoire.

The first movement marked as moderato begins with a series of hauntingly beautiful chords that set the stage for one of the most passionate and emotionally charged pieces in classical music.

This movement, with its rich melodies and complex harmonies, showcases Rachmaninoff’s unique blend of lyrical romanticism and virtuosic piano writing, all within the framework of a controlled, moderate tempo.

When you come across a musical piece marked as presto, it’s your cue to play with pace and not hang about!

Other words used to describe it are “swift,” “rapid,” “energetic,” or “lively.”

How Fast Is Presto?

It’s one thing to say that presto means “very fast,” but what does that mean in terms of actual tempo? How exactly fast are we talking?

To avoid the guesswork, we can turn to a reliable friend — the metronome. The tempo for presto typically ranges between 168 and 200 BPM (beats per minute).

This range is crucial. While it clearly suggests a brisk pace, there’s still room for a touch of personal interpretation that the composer leaves up to the performer.

Historical Context And Etymology Of Presto

Presto, in Italian, literally means “quick” or “immediate.” But it also comes from the Latin word praestus, which means “at hand” or “ready.”

This root of the word helps us to understand that playing at a presto tempo isn’t just about pace; it’s about capturing a sense of urgency and readiness.

Historically, the first use of presto as a musical term is thought to have come about in the Baroque era by composer Purcell in the 1680s. Composers of the Baroque period, like Vivaldi and Bach, often used presto to conclude their fast-paced, dynamic compositions.

The Baroque era’s fondness for contrast and dramatic expression made presto an ideal choice for showcasing a composer’s technical prowess and the emotional intensity of the music.

It was during this period that presto firmly established its place in the lexicon of musical tempos, becoming synonymous with speed, agility, and the thrilling culmination of musical works.

Related Terms To Presto

• Prestissimo: Even faster than presto, this term is used for the most rapid and brisk tempos possible in music. It’s like pushing the boundaries of speed to the extreme (200+ BPM).
• Presto agitato: This combines presto with a sense of agitation or restlessness, suggesting a fast tempo with an added layer of emotional intensity or urgency.
• Presto con fuoco: Translating to “fast with fire,” it implies a performance that is not only rapid but also passionate and fiery.
• Presto ma non troppo: Meaning “very fast, but not overly so,” it indicates a tempo that is quick yet controlled, without going to the extremes of Prestissimo.
• Presto vivace: A blend of presto and Vivace, indicating a tempo that is both fast and lively, imbuing the piece with a vibrant and spirited character.
• Presto leggero: This suggests a light, nimble approach to the fast tempo, emphasizing agility and delicacy even within the rapid pace.
• Presto con brio: Meaning “fast with vigor,” it suggests a performance that combines rapid tempo with energetic, spirited playing.
• Presto scherzando: Scherzando means “playful” or “joking,” so this term indicates a fast tempo with a playful, light-hearted character, adding a sense of whimsy to the rapid pace.

Examples Of Presto Tempo Music

Finally, here are some examples of presto in music to give you an idea of how fast it should be played.

“The Four Seasons: Summer (3rd Movement)” By Antonio Vivaldi

In contrast to his bright and buoyant “Spring,” Vivaldi’s “Summer” from The Four Seasons features a stormy and intense third movement marked presto.

It captures the sudden, tempestuous summer storms, showcasing Vivaldi’s masterful ability to paint vivid pictures with music.

“Symphony No. 4 In A Major, Op. 90 ‘Italian’ (4th Movement)” By Felix Mendelssohn

Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 4, known as the “Italian,” concludes with a vibrant and exuberant fourth movement marked presto.

This movement is often celebrated for its lively rhythms and joyous spirit, embodying the composer’s impressions of Italy’s color and warmth.

The presto tempo here adds a sense of exhilarating vitality, making it a fitting and memorable finale to this beloved symphony.

“String Quartet No. 14 (4th Movement)” By Franz Schubert

Schubert’s “Death and the Maiden” quartet concludes with a presto movement that is both vigorous and compelling.

This movement’s rapid tempo and relentless energy serve as a fitting climax to one of Schubert’s most celebrated works.

“Piano Sonata No. 2 (4th Movement)” By Frédéric Chopin

The 3rd movement of Frédéric Chopin’s Piano Sonata No. 2, which is often referred to as the “Funeral March,” is followed by a swift and technically challenging 4th movement, which is presto.

Chopin’s use of Presto here creates a stark contrast with the preceding movements, adding a sense of ethereal lightness and rapidity.

When a piece of music is marked as andantino, it invites musicians to play with a gracefully moderate tempo, weaving a texture that’s neither too hurried nor too leisurely.

Other words that capture the essence of andantino include “gentle,” “flowing,” “relaxed,” and “lightly graceful.”

How Fast Is Andantino?

So we understand that andantino is a tempo marking that’s often considered a bit faster than andante, but just how moderate is this pace? Since someone’s interpretation of a tempo term can vary widely from one musician to another, we need something more concrete to guide us.

To get a clearer sense of the tempo for andantino, a handy tool is an online metronome. This helps provide a more objective measure of how fast we should play.

Generally, andantino is set within the range of 80 to 108 BPM (beats per minute). This tempo range offers musicians enough flexibility to interpret the music, allowing them to imbue it with their personal touch while staying true to the composer’s intentions.

Historical Context And Etymology Of Andantino

But what does andantino literally mean? The word originates from another Italian tempo term, “andante,” which means “walking.”

Andantino adds the diminutive suffix “-ino” (which essentially means little). This makes it directly translates to “a little walking” or “slightly faster than walking pace.”

This etymology gives us a hint into the light, airy quality that andantino aims to capture in music.

Tracing the historical usage of andantino, we find ourselves stepping into the classical era of music, particularly flourishing in the late 18th century. This era, renowned for its clarity, symmetry, and balance, witnessed the evolution of musical expression.

Composers like Mozart and Beethoven often employed andantino to add a nuanced layer of expressiveness to their compositions, differentiating it from the more leisurely andante.

This period marked a transition from the ornate complexities of the Baroque era to a more nuanced and expressive use of tempo in music. The introduction of andantino provided composers with a wider palette to paint their musical ideas, allowing them to explore the subtleties between the relaxed andante and the more lively allegro.

Related Terms To Andantino

• Andante: Literally means “walking” in Italian. It indicates a tempo that is steady and moderate, like a leisurely walk (56 – 108 BPM).
• Andante moderato: A tempo slightly faster than andante. It combines the moderate pace of andante with a hint of briskness (80 – 108 BPM).
• Andante con moto: Translates to “walking with motion.” This tempo is similar to andante but with a slightly increased pace, adding a sense of gentle forward motion.
• Andante sostenuto: This indicates a tempo similar to andante but played in a sustained, elongated manner, often emphasizing the lyrical quality of the music.
• Andante cantabile: Means “walking in a singing style.” It’s a tempo akin to andante, emphasizing a melodic, song-like quality in the music.
• Andante grazioso: Translates to “walking gracefully.” It is a tempo that combines the moderate pace of andante with a light, elegant touch.
• Andante ma non troppo: Literally means “walking but not too much.” This marking suggests a tempo that is moderate, like andante, but with caution to not become too leisurely.
• Andante con grazia: Implies a tempo similar to andante but with added grace and delicacy, often used in pieces that require a touch of elegance.

Examples Of Andantino Tempo Music

And finally, here are some examples of Andantino tempo so you can get an idea of the speed and feel of it.

“Andantino ‘Spring,’ B. 117” By Frédéric Chopin

Frédéric Chopin’s “Andantino ‘Spring’” is a delightful piece that perfectly encapsulates the essence of the andantino tempo. Composed with a light, airy touch, it evokes the freshness and renewal of spring.

This piece stands as a testament to Chopin’s skill in creating music that is both delicate and emotionally resonant, making excellent use of the andantino tempo to convey a sense of gentle, blooming vitality.

“Ivan Sings” By Aram Khachaturian

Aram Khachaturian’s “Ivan Sings” from his Children’s Album for Piano is a captivating piece that embodies the playful and tender qualities of the andantino tempo.

This piece, with its simple yet expressive melody, is designed to be approachable for young pianists, yet it carries the depth and emotional richness characteristic of Khachaturian’s style.

The andantino tempo here adds to the narrative quality of the music, suggesting the innocence and simplicity of a child’s world.

“Symphony No. 4 In F Minor, Op. 36, II” By Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

The second movement of Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4 is titled “Andantino in modo di canzona.” This movement is a standout for its emotional depth and lyrical beauty. The andantino tempo contributes to a deeply expressive and somewhat melancholic character.

Tchaikovsky masterfully uses the andantino tempo to weave a narrative that is both intimate and dramatic, reflecting the composer’s own struggles and triumphs.

When a composition is marked as “andante,” it invites the musician to adopt a tempo that is calm and flowing, often imbued with a sense of tranquility and thoughtful expression.

Other words often used to describe andante include “steady,” “even-paced,” “easy-going,” “measured,” and “lyrical.”

How Fast Is Andante?

So andante means “at a walking pace,” but whose walking pace are we talking about? As with most Italian tempo terms, the actual speed is subject to personal interpretation. While it is generally understood to mean “moderately slow,” the precise speed can vary depending on the musician’s perspective.

To provide a more objective measure, musicians frequently turn to a metronome. For andante, the tempo typically ranges from 76 to 108 BPM (beats per minute). This range gives musicians a concrete reference point while still allowing for some interpretative flexibility.

Historical Context And Etymology Of Andante

Andante is derived from the Italian word andare, which means “to go” or “walking.” This perfectly captures the tempo’s essence: not too fast, not too slow, but like a leisurely stroll, moving forward with ease and grace.

The first use of andante in musical terminology emerged in the mid-1700s. This was a time when music shifted from the ornate and complex compositions of the Baroque era to the clearer, more structured, and expressive style of the classical era.

Composers like Mozart and Haydn were masters of this tempo, using andante to evoke a wide range of emotions, from gentle warmth to thoughtful introspection.

Interestingly, andante was more than just a tempo marking; it represented an era’s musical philosophy. In a period where balance, clarity, and form were highly valued, andante provided the perfect pace for exploring these ideals. It allowed composers to create pieces that were emotionally engaging yet structured, expressive yet controlled.

Related Terms To Andante

• Andantino: Slightly faster or sometimes slower than andante. It is often used to describe a lighter, more graceful approach to andante (80–108 BPM)
• Andante moderato: A tempo that sits comfortably between andante and moderato. It’s a bit brisker than andante but still retains a relaxed walking pace (80–108 BPM)
• Andante con moto: Translates to “andante with motion.” This indicates a movement slightly more lively than andante, yet still measured and controlled.
• Andante sostenuto: Meaning “sustained andante.” It suggests a tempo that is andante in pace but with a more prolonged, lingering quality in each note or phrase
• Andante tranquillo: A tempo that combines the steady pace of andante with a calm, serene quality, emphasizing smoothness and tranquility in the music
• Andante maestoso: This term combines andante with a majestic or grand character, suggesting a dignified and stately walking pace
• Andante cantabile: Meaning “singable or song-like andante.” It implies a flowing, melodic quality at a walking pace, focusing on lyrical expressiveness
• Andante grazioso: Translates to “graceful andante.” It indicates a tempo that is gentle and elegant, with a focus on delicacy and finesse
• Andante espressivo: Signifies an andante pace with added expressiveness, emphasizing emotional depth and expressive phrasing within the steady tempo
• Andante allegretto: A tempo marking that blends the characteristics of andante and allegretto, offering a balance between a relaxed pace and a slightly livelier mood

Examples Of Andante Music

To finish, here are some examples of pieces of music written at the tempo of andante. This should give you a greater understanding of what it sounds like and the range of beats per minute that Andate can span.

Symphony No. 6 In F Major, “Pastoral” (2nd Movement) By Ludwig Van Beethoven

This movement, titled “Andante molto moto,” is often referred to as the “Scene by the Brook.” It’s a serene and peaceful depiction of the gentle flow of a stream, illustrating Beethoven’s deep love for nature. The andante tempo perfectly captures the tranquil, flowing quality of the scene.

Piano Concerto No. 21 In C Major, K. 467 (2nd Movement) By Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Famously known as the “Elvira Madigan” concerto after its use in the film of the same name, this movement is a sublime example of Mozart’s expressive prowess in the andante tempo. Its lyrical and heartfelt melodies create a deeply moving and memorable musical experience.

String Quartet No. 14 In D Minor, “Death And The Maiden” (2nd Movement) By Franz Schubert

Schubert’s “Death and the Maiden” quartet, particularly the andante movement, is renowned for its emotional depth and intensity.

The movement, a theme with variations, is both haunting and beautiful, reflecting Schubert’s preoccupation with death and mortality.

Symphony No. 40 In G Minor, K. 550 (2nd Movement) By Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

And to finish, the second movement of Mozart’s 40th Symphony is marked “Andante.” It showcases Mozart’s ability to weave complex emotions into the framework of a single movement.

The andante tempo here allows for a mix of introspection and subtle dramatic tension, making it a cornerstone of the symphonic repertoire.

When a piece of music is marked adagio, it suggests playing the music at a relaxed and easy pace, often conveying a sense of calmness, reflection, and emotive depth in the music.

Other words that are frequently used to describe adagio include “gentle,” “serene,” “soothing,” “unhurried,” “reflective,” and “mellow.”

How Fast Is Adagio?

So adagio means “slowly.” But exactly how slow should you play it? Instead of relying solely on subjective interpretation, we can use a metronome to get a more precise sense of the tempo.

Like with other tempo markings, there’s a range to consider. Typically, the tempo for adagio falls between 44 – 68 BPM (beats per minute).

This range provides a framework, but it’s important to remember that adagio is as much about the feeling of ease and relaxation as it is about the exact speed.

Historical Context And Etymology Of Adagio

The term “adagio” has its roots in the Italian word “ad agio,” meaning “at ease.” This origin reflects the essence of the tempo, emphasizing a sense of calmness and tranquility in the music.

The use of adagio in musical terminology can be traced back to the mid-1700s, coinciding with the mid-Baroque era. This period saw a heightened emphasis on expressive depth and the emotional contours of music, setting the stage for the widespread use of Adagio.

Related Terms To Adagio

Here are some terms that are often associated with adagio:

• Largo: This tempo is slower and more solemn than adagio, often conveying a grand, expansive feeling (40 – 66 BPM)
• Larghetto: Slightly faster than largo, larghetto maintains a slow pace but with a bit more lightness and fluidity (44 – 66 BPM)
• Adagietto: This term is somewhat quicker than adagio and is often used to express a slightly more upbeat or less weighty mood (46 – 80 BPM)
• Andante: A tempo that is slightly faster than adagio. It translates to “walking pace,” signifying a steady, moderate speed (76 – 108 BPM)
• Andantino: This can be slightly faster or slower than andante, depending on the composer’s interpretation, generally light and flowing (80 – 108 BPM)
• Adagio cantabile: Indicates a slow tempo that should be played in a singing, lyrical style, emphasizing melody and expression
• Adagio sostenuto: A sustained, extended adagio, often requiring prolonged notes and a sense of lingering on the melody
• Adagio ma non troppo: Means “slowly but not too much,” suggesting a careful balance between slow tempo and musical flow
• Adagio ma non tanto: Similar to adagio ma non troppo, it implies a slow tempo but with a hint of flexibility, not too slow

Examples Of Adagio Tempo Music

Finally, here are some famous examples of adagio music to help you get an idea of how fast adagio should be played and the range of BPMs that it can span. You’ll also see the emotional depth of the music that embodies this tempo.

“Adagio For Strings” By Samuel Barber

One of the most famous adagio pieces, Barber’s “Adagio for Strings” is renowned for its solemn, emotive, and deeply moving qualities. It’s often played during solemn occasions and has become a symbol of mourning and reflection in Western music.

“Piano Concerto No. 23 – II. Adagio” By Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 23 is famous for its expressive second movement, marked Adagio. This movement is celebrated for its lyrical beauty and profound expressiveness, showcasing Mozart’s mastery of composing for the piano.

“Adagio In G minor” By Tomaso Albinoni

Often attributed to Albinoni but actually composed by Remo Giazotto based on Albinoni’s fragments, this piece is famous for its melancholic melody and serene character. It’s a staple in classical music, frequently played on solemn occasions and ceremonies.

“Piano Concerto No. 2 In C Minor, Op.18” By Sergei Rachmaninoff

And finally, one of my favorite adagio pieces, the second movement of Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2 is a romantic and intense adagio, showcasing the piano (and the tempo) in all its glory.

Renowned for its romantic and passionate nature, this second movement is marked by its expressive, lyrical quality, showcasing the piano’s ability to convey deep emotions.

When a piece of music is marked as allegro, it should be played in a quick and lively manner, often conveying a sense of joy and spirited energy.

Other words that are often used to describe allegro are “cheerful,” “lively,” “brisk,” “spirited,” or “upbeat.”

How Fast Is Allegro?

Okay, so we know that allegro means “fast, quickly, and bright,” but exactly how fast should you play it? One person’s interpretation of quickly will be completely different from another’s.

Instead of relying solely on subjective interpretation, we can turn to a metronome to give us a more accurate idea of tempo.

Typically, the tempo for allegro falls between 120 and 168 BPM (beats per minute). While providing a general guideline, this range still allows for a degree of personal interpretation and flexibility.

Historical Context And Evolution Of Allegro

The interpretation of “allegro” has evolved significantly over various musical periods, reflecting changes in musical style, performance practice, and even the instruments used. Understanding this evolution can provide insight into how musicians approach this tempo marking today.

For example, during the Baroque era, the concept of fixed tempos was less rigid than it is today. Metronomes had not yet been invented, so allegro was more about the character of the music than a specific speed. It often suggested a lively, energetic, and spirited manner of playing.

However, the Classical era saw the development of more structured and standardized approaches to musical composition and performance. Allegro began to be more precisely defined, often associated with joy, elegance, and clarity.

It wasn’t until the invention of the metronome by Johann Maelzel in 1815, towards the end of this period, that it began to provide more specific tempo guidelines.

Related Terms To Allegro

There are a few different terms to do with allegro that you might come across. 

• Allegretto: Slightly slower and often considered less serious or lighter in character than allegro.
• Allegro moderato: A moderate version of allegro, not as fast as allegro but faster than andante.
• Allegro vivace: A term combining allegro and vivace, indicating a tempo that is fast and lively.
• Allegro con brio: Translates to “fast with vigor.” It suggests a lively or spirited approach to the fast tempo.
• Allegro con fuoco: Meaning “fast with fire,” it implies a passionate or fiery performance at a fast pace.
• Allegro assai: Essentially means “very fast,” indicating a faster interpretation of Allegro.
• Allegro ma non troppo: Means “fast but not too much.” It suggests a brisk pace but with restraint.
• Allegro non tanto: Similar to allegro ma non troppo, it means “fast, but not so much.”
• Allegro molto: Indicates a very fast tempo, faster than the standard allegro.

Examples Of Pieces Marked Allegro

To get an idea of how it sounds, here are a few different examples of pieces of music written with allegro tempo markings.

“Eine Kleine Nachtmusik” By Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

“The Four Seasons: Spring” By Antonio Vivaldi

“Trumpet Concerto In E-Flat Major (3rd Movement)“ By Joseph Haydn

“Sonata In C Major” By Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

So how can you display your talent while at the same time staying true to the composer’s intentions?

Many musicians see their contribution to music as a collaboration with the composer and, through the use of rubato, they can allow their skill and talent to shine through their performance.

If you’ve ever wondered what rubato is and how you can use rubato to improve your performance, then read on…

But First, What is Tempo?

To understand rubato, you first need to understand tempo.

Tempo is the speed at which a piece of music is played.

A piano teacher of mine once told me that every piece of music has a specific period of time in which to be completed.

And just as in the story of Goldilocks and The Three Bears, where the porridge was not too hot and not too cold, your performance should be, not too fast and not too slow, but just right.

The tempo is conveyed by means of either bpm (beats per minute), traditional terminology (usually Italian), or through current language usage, also referred to as modern language.

You’ll often see tempo referred to in terms of BPM which refers to the number of beats in 1 minute – for example, 60BPM means that there should be 60 beats per minute or one note for each second of time

Definition of Rubato

The best definition of rubato in music is the freedom or flexibility to choose your own tempo for a part or a phrase of music.

It is important to note that this is not a one-dimensional slowing down or speeding up of the musical score, but a sensitive adjustment to the feel of the music.

In essence, you get to choose how strictly you adhere to the composer’s indicated tempo, and in this way, the musician gets to express themselves through their performance.

The Two Types of Rubato

There are two distinct types of rubato.

The older form rubato used by the likes of Chopin or Mozart is less obtrusive and can be described more accurately as skewing the tempo rather than playing without reference to the marked time of a piece.

Here the time is “robbed” from one note is replaced by time from another, producing a tempo that remains within the bounds of the marked tempo of the entire score.

The modern or more commonly understood type of tempo rubato, as seen with composers like Liszt, is more flexible in that it stretches and contracts time, speeding up and slowing down without reference to the marked time of the score.

Both the melody and the accompaniment are stretched and shortened to achieve the desired effect.

The more modern form of rubato, used with exquisite taste and sensitivity, is ethereal in quality, whereas used to excess, it destroys the fabric of the music to the detriment of the performance.

It is for this reason that rubato is considered such a controversial technique.

How to Notate Rubato

Composers are known to write “rubato” or “tempo rubato” at the beginning of a piece to indicate a flexible tempo, and then “tempo giusto” or “non-rubato” to indicate the return to time (a tempo) later in the music.

Why is Rubato Used?

The use of flexible time allows accomplished musicians to express themselves through their performances.

Their technique accomplishes this through experience and feel for the music in a way that cannot be conveyed through conventual articulation marks.

Examples of Rubato

Chopin’s Nocturne in B Flat Minor, Op. 9 No. 1: “A Madame Camille Pleyel” is an excellent example of the use of rubato used sensitively and with due respect for the emotion of the work.

One of my absolute favourites is Liszt’s: Liebestraum No. 3, Notturno (Barenboim).

This is an unbelievably emotional piece of music and displays all the sensitivity and depth of feeling associated with tempo rubato employed by an accomplished pianist.

In Conclusion

In order for a performance to succeed, the musician/s, composer, and audience need to come together in the moment to experience the feeling and emotion created by truly great music.

Nowhere is it more difficult or controversial than when a musician departs from the composers’ instructions and creates a new experience.

Sometimes it works and at other times it founders and fails to fulfill expectations.

Yet even more difficulty arises when a composer directs the musician to decide for themselves how to express a piece of music through the explicit use of tempo rubato.

This becomes a minefield for the inexperienced musician and an opportunity for an experienced and accomplished musician to shine.

I trust that you now have a better understanding of what it takes to succeed with tempo rubato.