Which tempo marking is described as moderately fast (but less so than allegro)?

• A. Allegro moderato
• B. Allegretto
• C. Moderato
• D. Vivace

Answer: (B)

Understanding tempo markings involves where a piece sits on the speed spectrum. Allegro means fast and lively. Describing a tempo as moderately fast, but less than allegro, points to allegretto. Allegretto signals a brisk, cheerful pace that’s clearly quicker than a walk but not as intense as full allegro, giving a lighter, more relaxed energy. It’s commonly viewed as just below allegro in speed.

Moderato is simply a true moderate tempo, not fast, so it doesn’t capture the “moderately fast” feel. Vivace is clearly faster and more animated than allegro, so it’s not the right fit. Allegro moderato would be a distinct marking indicating a tempo between allegro and moderato, still quite brisk, but the wording here aligns best with allegretto.