Key idea Tempo is the speed of the beat, measured in BPM (beats per minute). Dynamics are loud and soft: p is soft, f is loud. Practise slowly first; full tempo comes later.
Tempo
Music often starts with an Italian word and sometimes a number like ♩ = 80, meaning 80 quarter notes per minute. A metronome keeps you at that speed.
- Largo: very slow and broad (about 40 to 60).
- Adagio: slow (about 66 to 76).
- Andante: at a walking pace (about 76 to 108).
- Moderato: moderate (about 108 to 120).
- Allegro: fast and bright (about 120 to 156).
- Presto: very fast (above 168).
Dynamics
- pp (pianissimo): very soft
- p (piano): soft
- mp (mezzo piano): moderately soft
- mf (mezzo forte): moderately loud
- f (forte): loud
- ff (fortissimo): very loud
- cresc. or an opening < hairpin: gradually louder. dim. or a closing > hairpin: gradually softer.
p: soft
f: loud
Quick check
Question 1/5What does Allegro mean?