Italian terms

Most tempo and expression markings are written in Italian.

Tempo

Here are some Italian terms used to describe tempo:

LargoSlowly and broadly
AndanteFairly slow, at walking pace
ModeratoAt moderate speed
AllegroFast
VivaceLively
PrestoVery quick
AccelerandoGradually speeding up
RallentandoGradually slowing down
RitenutoImmediately slower
AllargandoGetting slower and broadening
RubatoLiterally 'robbed time', where rhythms are played freely for expressive effect
Largo
Slowly and broadly
Andante
Fairly slow, at walking pace
Moderato
At moderate speed
Allegro
Fast
Vivace
Lively
Presto
Very quick
Accelerando
Gradually speeding up
Rallentando
Gradually slowing down
Ritenuto
Immediately slower
Allargando
Getting slower and broadening
Rubato
Literally 'robbed time', where rhythms are played freely for expressive effect

Articulation

TermMeaning
LegatoNotes should be played smoothly
StaccatoNotes are shortened
TenutoA note to be played for its duration
SforzandoA note should be given sudden emphasis, similar to an accent
MarcatoThis is a type of accent associated with string playing. Pressure needs to be placed on the bow and then released quickly and explosively.
TermLegato
MeaningNotes should be played smoothly
TermStaccato
MeaningNotes are shortened
TermTenuto
MeaningA note to be played for its duration
TermSforzando
MeaningA note should be given sudden emphasis, similar to an accent
TermMarcato
MeaningThis is a type of accent associated with string playing. Pressure needs to be placed on the bow and then released quickly and explosively.
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Articulation

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