Frisch

As Printed on a Score

Printed as a heading above the first bar, or mid-song where the music brightens again; it holds until the next tempo word. Combined forms include Frisch und kräftig.

How Composers Use It

Fresh and brisk — a lively tempo with an open, healthy character, often for songs of the outdoors or of youthful energy. Schumann and Wolf use it as a complete heading. It names spirit as much as speed, so let the figuration supply the pulse, or add a metronome mark.

Example

Schumann, Myrthen, Op. 25, No. 2, “Freisinn”: the song is headed “Frisch”, with f in its opening bars.

Related Terms