Con brio

As Printed on a Score

Almost always printed as part of a tempo heading — Allegro con brio, Allegro vivace e con brio — rather than alone, though it occasionally appears by itself mid-movement. It describes the manner of the tempo word and lasts as long as that heading does.

How Composers Use It

Con brio is one of Beethoven’s signature tempo modifiers. It adds dash and spirit to any tempo marking. Allegro con brio should feel like the music is barely contained — bursting with energy.

Example

Beethoven's Symphony No. 5, first movement (Allegro con brio) — the "con brio" adds urgency to an already fast tempo.

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