"Lively, fast"
Allegro
120–156BPM
Fast and lively. The most common fast tempo — energetic and driven.
138BPM
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Range: 120–156 BPMCanonical: 138 BPM
About Allegro
Allegro (from the Italian for 'merry' or 'lively') is the most widely used fast tempo marking in classical music. First movements of sonatas and symphonies are almost always allegro. At this tempo, the music has clear energy and drive without the lightness of vivace or the virtuosic intensity of presto. It's fast enough to feel exciting, slow enough to be clearly articulated. Most pop and rock music sits in the allegro range.
Character
- Energetic and driven
- Most common fast marking
- Clear articulation still possible
- Exciting without being frantic
Famous examples
Beethoven Symphony No.5, 1st mvt
Beethoven
Allegro con brio
132 BPM
Mozart Symphony No.40, 1st mvt
Mozart
Molto allegro
156 BPM
Vivaldi Four Seasons, Spring
Vivaldi
Allegro
138 BPM
Bach Brandenburg Concerto No.3
Bach
Allegro
144 BPM
Distinguishing from adjacent tempos
Allegro and vivace are easily confused — vivace is lighter and more buoyant; allegro is driven and energetic. Vivace has a 'dancing' quality; allegro has more weight.
All tempo markings — slowest to fastest