Tempo Marking
A word or phrase placed at the beginning of a piece or section indicating the speed at which it should be performed.
Category
notation
Pronunciation
/ˈtɛmpəʊ ˈmɑːkɪŋ/
Origin
Italian (tempo, time)
Length
184 words · 1 min read
About Tempo Marking
Tempo markings are traditionally given in Italian and describe both speed and character. Common markings include Largo (very slow and broad), Adagio (slow and expressive), Andante (walking pace), Moderato (moderate), Allegro (fast and lively), and Presto (very fast).
More notation terms
Articulation Markings
View all notationterms →Symbols placed above or below notes to indicate how they should be attacked, sustained, or released.
Note ValueThe duration of a note relative to the beat.
Ledger LineA short horizontal line drawn above or below the staff to extend its range for notes too high or too low to fit.
AccidentalA symbol placed before a note to raise or lower its pitch by a semitone or whole tone, overriding the key signature.
Repeat SignA pair of dots and double barlines that instruct the performer to replay a section of music.
Compare with similar terms
v1 · 10/04/2026Browse all terms →