adagio
A slow, leisurely tempo, typically 66-76 BPM.
In Depth
Adagio comes from the Italian ad agio, meaning at ease. At 66–76 BPM, it gives performers space to shape long, expressive phrases. Many of the most beloved slow movements in classical music carry this marking, including the Adagio for Strings by Samuel Barber. Composers often use adagio for moments of deep emotion or reflection. In a symphony, the slow movement is frequently marked adagio, providing contrast to the faster outer movements. The tempo demands control and sustained tone, making adagio passages a test of a performer's musicianship.
Barber's Adagio for Strings was played on American radio to announce the deaths of Presidents Roosevelt and Kennedy, and after the September 11 attacks.
Related Terms
More in Tempo
Browse alla tempo
Return to the original tempo after a deviation.
accelerando
A gradual increase in tempo.
agitato
Agitated; restless and hurried in character.
alla breve
Cut time; two half-note beats per measure, giving a faster feel.
allegretto
A moderately fast tempo, slightly slower than allegro.
allegro
A fast, lively tempo, typically 120-156 BPM.
andante
A walking pace tempo, typically 76-108 BPM.
andantino
Slightly faster than andante, though historically debated.