Music Tempo Markings: From Largo to Prestissimo
Before digital metronomes, composers used Italian words to indicate the desired speed and character of a piece. These tempo markings are still printed in sheet music today and are part of every musician's vocabulary. Here is a complete reference from slowest to fastest, with approximate BPM equivalents.
The Standard Tempo Markings
| Marking | Meaning | Approximate BPM |
|---|---|---|
| Larghissimo | Extremely slow | Below 24 |
| Grave | Solemn, very slow | 24–40 |
| Largo | Broad, slow | 40–60 |
| Larghetto | Slightly faster than Largo | 60–66 |
| Adagio | Slow and stately | 66–76 |
| Adagietto | Slightly faster than Adagio | 72–76 |
| Andante | Walking pace | 76–108 |
| Andantino | Slightly faster than Andante | 80–108 |
| Moderato | Moderate speed | 108–120 |
| Allegretto | Moderately fast | 112–120 |
| Allegro | Fast, lively | 120–156 |
| Vivace | Lively and fast | 156–176 |
| Vivacissimo | Very lively | 172–176 |
| Allegrissimo | Very fast | 172–176 |
| Presto | Very fast | 168–200 |
| Prestissimo | As fast as possible | Above 200 |
BPM ranges vary between sources and historical periods. The values above reflect modern common usage.
Modifier Words
Composers often combine markings with modifiers:
- Molto — very (Molto Allegro = very fast)
- Poco — a little (Poco Andante = slightly walking)
- Assai — very (Allegro assai = very lively)
- Ma non troppo — but not too much (Allegro ma non troppo = fast but not too fast)
How to Use This in Practice
When you encounter a tempo marking in sheet music, look it up in the table above and set your metronome to the middle of the range. Then adjust by feel — some pieces call for the energetic end of Allegro, others for a more relaxed version.
For example, if a piece is marked Andante, start at around 90 BPM. If it feels rushed, try 76. If it feels sluggish, try 100. The marking is a guideline, not a strict rule.
Historical Context
The Italian markings originated in the Baroque period (1600–1750) when no reliable way to communicate exact tempo existed. As metronomes became common in the early 19th century, Beethoven was one of the first composers to add metronome markings alongside Italian terms — sparking a debate that continues today about whether his markings were intentional or the result of a faulty instrument.
Modern practice generally treats Italian markings as character indicators and BPM markings as precise speed targets. When both are given, follow the BPM.