Scherzo

As Printed on a Score

Printed as a movement heading above the first system, usually with a tempo word — “Scherzo. Allegro vivace”, or “SCHERZO” over “Assai vivace”. It returns inside the repeat instructions after the trio: “Scherzo da capo”, “D. C. Scherzo e poi la Coda”. Chopin and Brahms also use it as the title of a free-standing piece.

How Composers Use It

Beethoven transformed the genteel minuet into the vigorous scherzo. Write scherzos with rhythmic energy, unexpected accents, and humor. The standard form is scherzo-trio-scherzo (ABA), with the trio providing contrast — often smoother and more lyrical.

Example

Beethoven's Symphony No. 9, second movement (Molto vivace) — a titanic scherzo with thunderous timpani and relentless energy.

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