Lebendig

As Printed on a Score

Printed above the first system as a tempo-and-character heading, alone or qualified (Ziemlich lebendig), and in force until the next tempo word. Schumann prints it with a full stop, as a heading in its own right.

How Composers Use It

Lebendig stresses vitality of character more than sheer speed — alive, buoyant — where schnell names a pace. Schumann uses it, often qualified, in his songs, part of his turn to German tempo words. Add a metronome mark or a second word if you want a particular speed, since readers place it anywhere from a brisk allegretto to allegro.

Example

Schumann, Dichterliebe, Op. 48, “Aus alten Märchen”, voice: the song is headed simply “Lebendig.”

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