Common tempo markings
- Largo: 40 to 60 BPM
- Adagio: 66 to 76 BPM
- Andante: 76 to 108 BPM
- Moderato: 108 to 120 BPM
- Allegro: 120 to 156 BPM
- Presto: 168 to 200 BPM
Tempo markings give musical direction, while BPM gives exact speed. Use this page as a quick reference, then set the metronome to the lower end first and increase gradually as your control improves.
How to apply markings in practice
- Pick the target marking from your score.
- Start at a slower BPM than performance tempo.
- Use subdivisions for rhythm precision.
- Increase by 2 to 5 BPM once consistent.
Tempo markings FAQ
Are tempo markings exact BPM values?
No. They are ranges and style cues. Use BPM targets as a practical baseline and adjust for musical phrasing.
What if I cannot play cleanly at marked tempo?
Drop BPM until notes are clean and steady, then build back up gradually with consistent repetition.