Frisch und kräftig

As Printed on a Score

A heading phrase printed above the first staff of a song, piano piece or movement, sometimes with an Italian tempo word beside it. It sets the character of the whole piece unless a later tempo or character word changes it.

How Composers Use It

The pairing asks for a lively pace (frisch implies a brisk, wholesome tempo) together with firm, full-bodied tone and clear accents. It suits hearty, outdoor-spirited music — marches, hunting and student songs. Because frisch already implies speed, a separate tempo word is optional; add a metronome mark if the pace matters, and avoid adding further strength words, which only repeat kräftig.

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