Brioso

As Printed on a Score

Printed beside a tempo word in a heading or in a part at the start of a lively passage. It has no cancelling word; it holds until the next character or tempo direction.

How Composers Use It

Brioso means the same as con brio — spirited, with dash — and the choice is mostly one of rhythm in the heading: con brio after Allegro, brioso where an adjective reads more neatly. It asks for energy and buoyant attack rather than more speed. Avoid stacking it with con brio or vivace in one direction; one word of energy is enough, and the tempo word should carry the pace.

Related Terms