TEMPOS AS TITLES
Tempos are utilized as titles and labels for different sections of musical compositions.
Sections of larger musical works are called Movements.
It is interesting to note that the overall form of musical compositions are in a state of motion. Traditionally larger compositions, such as symphonies, have multiple movements.
In order to balance the flow of longer, multi-movement compositions, such as that of the symphony, movements usually alternate between fast and slow tempi. Variety of tempo-tiled movements serve to keep the listener involved in the unfolding of the complete work. For example, many classical symphonies include movements that are labeled – Allegro, Andante, Scherzo and Presto.
The Austrian composer Franz Joseph Haydn (1732-1809), was known as the “Father of the Symphony and String Quartet.” Haydn developed multi-movement compositions that are similar to chapters in a story. At times, Allegros are preceded by an Introduction which adds a more dramatic impact, to what became the expected, fast, beginning of a work, the Allegro. Franz Joseph Haydn composed 104 Symphonies and hundreds of other works that label movements with a tempo indication.
Beethoven chose – Allegro con brio as the tempo to label the first movement of his famous Fifth Symphony. Con Brio means with energy. Interpretations of tempo terminologies have been a source of controversy for centuries. Some musicians believe it is important to consider the instrument’s technical limitations utilized during the time period of the composition. The contrary opinion suggests that composers would appreciate technical developments that help to make their music sound as great as possible. Both opinions are valid and that is why the same piece of music may be interpreted differently. In an orchestra, it is up to the maestro to interpret the tempo that they believe best suits the music.
