Tempo Basics
What musical element is measured in beats per minute (BPM)?
Tempo
Which Italian term means "walking pace"?
Andante
What musical element describes how notes are played or connected?
Articulation
What articulation marking emphasizes a note without shortening it?
Accent
What does the term solo indicate in the score?
One performer plays alone
A piece marked Presto would most likely have what kind of BPM range? (Bonus for whoever can tell me exact tempo range)
High/fast BPM
Which term indicates a fast, lively tempo, often used in upbeat music?
Allegro
What articulation would create a light, separated sound?
Staccato
Which marking tells a musician to hold a note for its full value?
Tenuto
What does tutti mean?
Everyone plays in the section
How does tempo most directly affect the mood of a piece of music?
What tempo marking would you most likely see at the end of a dramatic slowdown?
A tempo
Which articulation would be most appropriate for a lyrical melody?
Legato
How would staccato articulation change the feel of a march?
It would sound more precise and detached
What does tacit tell a performer to do?
Do not play
If a piece feels rushed but the tempo marking has not changed, what might actually be the problem?
Inconsistent tempo or lack of ensemble control (rushing)
What is the difference between ritardando and rubato?
Ritardando gradually slows down; rubato is flexible tempo for expression
How does articulation affect musical style, even when tempo stays the same?
Why might a composer use marcato articulation in a powerful section?
To add intensity and emphasis
What does crescendo (<) indicate over a musical phrase?
Why might a composer choose a slower tempo for an emotional or dramatic section?
To allow expression, tension, and phrasing to develop
What is the term for a musical technique where two or more independent, conflicting tempos occur simultaneously, creating a complex, layered rhythmic effect?
Polytempo
Why might poor articulation cause ensemble balance or clarity problems?
Notes may not line up or speak clearly across sections
How do articulation choices impact ensemble precision during fast tempos?
They help notes line up and maintain clarity
If a score says soli->tutti, what musical effect is the composer creating?
Contrast between a small group and the full section/ensemble