Brio

As Printed on a Score

Almost never printed alone: it appears in con brio, usually as part of a tempo heading (Allegro con brio) at the top of a movement, governing the whole movement or section.

How Composers Use It

Brio is spirit and vigour — energetic attack, buoyant rhythm, brilliance of tone. In Allegro con brio it describes the tempo’s character more than its speed; it is a favourite heading of Beethoven’s for energetic first movements. Use it when drive and spirit, rather than sheer speed, should define the music.

Example

Beethoven, Symphony No. 3 in E-flat major (“Eroica”), Op. 55, first movement, flute 1, m. 1: “Allegro con brio”, the movement’s heading.

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