Allegro Assai
To play at a very fast tempo
"Allegro Assai" is an Italian musical term that translates to "very fast" or "very lively" in English. It is employed to signify that the music should be executed at an exceptionally swift tempo, brimming with a heightened level of energy and liveliness.
"Allegro Assai" functions as a tempo indication, directing performers to execute the music with a rapid tempo. This marking seamlessly combines "Allegro" (fast) and "Assai" (very), accentuating both the brisk pace and the effervescent character of the music.
Upon encountering the "Allegro Assai" notation, performers are entrusted with delivering the music at an intensely fast tempo, thereby capturing an elevated sense of vitality and vivacity. This accelerated tempo contributes to a spirited and dynamic musical rendition, imbuing the composition with momentum and fervor.
Executing "Allegro Assai" entails not only the challenge of speed but also demands precision in technical execution and rhythmic accuracy. The brisk tempo may encompass swift melodic passages, animated motifs, and dynamic fluctuations within the music.
Interpreting "Allegro Assai" calls for performers to showcase exceptional speed and vigor, ensuring a harmonious blend of technical prowess and expressive elements that effectively convey the music's vivaciousness and pulsating rhythm.
Example of Allegro Assai
Common Tempo Markings
Tempo Marking | bpm | Meaning |
Grave | 20 - 40 bpm | Slow and solemn |
Lento | 40 - 60 bpm | Slow |
Largo | 40 - 60 bpm | Slow and broad |
Larghetto | 60 - 66 bpm | Rather broadly |
Adagio | 66 - 76 bpm | Slow and stately |
Adagietto | 70 - 80 bpm | Slightly faster than adagio |
Andante | 72 - 76 bpm | Walking pace |
Andante moderato | 92 - 98 bpm | Moderate walking pace |
Moderato | 108 - 120 bpm | At a moderate tempo |
Allegretto | 112 - 120 bpm | Moderately fast |
Allegro moderato | 116 - 120 bpm | Moderately quick |
Allegro | 120 - 156 bpm | Fast and lively |
Vivace | 156 - 176 bpm | Fast and lively |
Allegro vivace | 172 - 176 bpm | Very fast and lively |
Presto | 168 - 200 bpm | Quickly |
Prestissimo | 200+ bpm | As fast as possible |