Tempo

OCR

GCSE

Tempo serves as the fundamental regulator of musical flow, dictating the rate of harmonic change and the character of rhythmic articulation within a composition. Candidates must demonstrate precise command of standard Italian terminology (e.g., Allegro, Adagio) and metronomic markings (BPM), while critically analysing how tempo choices define genre and historical style. Mastery extends beyond theoretical definition to the practical application of expressive devices such as rubato, accelerando, and ritardando, requiring candidates to maintain pulse stability while executing stylistic fluctuations. Examiners expect responses to link tempo decisions directly to the intended mood, structural tension, and performance practice of the specific era.

Objectives

Exam Tips

Pitfalls

Key Terms

Mark Points

Subtopics in this area

Tempo

What You Need to Demonstrate

Key skills and knowledge for this topic

Award marks for the correct spelling and application of Italian terminology (e.g., Andante, Vivace) in listening responses.
Credit analysis that links tempo choices to specific effects, such as tension generation in Film Music via accelerando.
In Performance, examiners assess the ability to maintain a consistent pulse without unintentional fluctuation.
In Composition, credit the effective use of tempo changes to provide contrast and structural definition.
Award marks for the accurate identification of specific Italian terms: Largo, Andante, Moderato, Allegro, Vivace, Presto
Credit recognition of tempo modifications, specifically Accelerando, Ritardando, Rallentando, and Rubato
In Section B (Essay), reward analysis that links tempo choices to the creation of specific moods or atmospheres (e.g., tension in Film Music)
Credit responses that distinguish between the underlying pulse (Tempo) and the surface rhythm patterns

Example Examiner Feedback

Real feedback patterns examiners use when marking

"You have described the music as 'fast'; to access higher mark bands, you must use the correct Italian terminology such as 'Allegro' or 'Vivace'"
"Your comparison notes a change in speed; expand this by analysing how this tempo shift alters the mood between the two extracts"
"Distinguish clearly between the beat and the rhythm; your answer confuses the speed of the pulse with the density of the notes"
"Excellent identification of 'rubato'; now explain its function in the context of the Romantic Concerto style"

Marking Points

Key points examiners look for in your answers

Award marks for the correct spelling and application of Italian terminology (e.g., Andante, Vivace) in listening responses.
Credit analysis that links tempo choices to specific effects, such as tension generation in Film Music via accelerando.
In Performance, examiners assess the ability to maintain a consistent pulse without unintentional fluctuation.
In Composition, credit the effective use of tempo changes to provide contrast and structural definition.
Award marks for the accurate identification of specific Italian terms: Largo, Andante, Moderato, Allegro, Vivace, Presto
Credit recognition of tempo modifications, specifically Accelerando, Ritardando, Rallentando, and Rubato
In Section B (Essay), reward analysis that links tempo choices to the creation of specific moods or atmospheres (e.g., tension in Film Music)
Credit responses that distinguish between the underlying pulse (Tempo) and the surface rhythm patterns

Examiner Tips

Expert advice for maximising your marks

💡Create a glossary of Italian terms ordered by BPM to distinguish subtle differences like Allegretto versus Allegro.
💡In the listening exam, listen for the underlying beat rather than the surface rhythm to accurately gauge the tempo.
💡Ensure all compositions submitted include a clear tempo marking (BPM or Italian term) at the start of the score.
💡Memorize the hierarchy of Italian terms by BPM to ensure precision when selecting between 'Allegro' and 'Presto'
💡When analysing Film Music (AoS 4), explicitly link tempo changes to on-screen actions (hit points) or emotional shifts
💡Listen for the return to the original speed and use the term 'A tempo' where appropriate
💡In dictation questions, tap the pulse silently to establish the tempo before attempting to notate the rhythm

Common Mistakes

Pitfalls to avoid in your exam answers

Describing tempo using emotional terms (e.g., 'sad') rather than speed-related technical terminology.
Confusing 'rhythm' (duration of notes) with 'tempo' (speed of the beat) in analysis questions.
Failing to maintain pulse stability during technically demanding sections in performance coursework.
Using vague English descriptors like 'getting faster' instead of the required 'accelerando'.
Using vague English descriptors (e.g., 'getting faster') when the specific Italian term (e.g., 'Accelerando') is required
Confusing 'Tempo' (speed of the beat) with 'Dynamics' (volume) or 'Rhythm' (note duration)
Failing to identify 'Rubato' in Romantic Concertos, describing it merely as 'unsteady timing'
In comparative questions, stating the tempo is 'different' without specifying how (e.g., 'Extract A is Allegro whereas Extract B is Andante')

Study Guide Available

Comprehensive revision notes & examples

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Key Terminology

Essential terms to know

Standard Italian Terminology and Metronome Markings

Expressive Tempo Modification (Rubato, Accelerando, Ritardando)

Historical and Stylistic Tempo Conventions (Baroque vs. Romantic vs. Pop)

Standard Italian Terminology and Metronomic Markings

Expressive Manipulation of Pulse (Rubato, Agogic Accents)

Stylistic Conventions and Historical Performance Practice

Likely Command Words

How questions on this topic are typically asked

Identify

Describe

Compare

Suggest

Explain

Analyse

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