Vivace

As Printed on a Score

Printed above the staff as a heading, alone or combined — Allegro vivace, Molto vivace, Vivace assai, Vivace ma non troppo. Combined with another tempo word it acts as a character word (Allegro vivace is a lively Allegro). It lasts until the next tempo marking; the superlative vivacissimo and the shorter vivo are printed as separate words.

How Composers Use It

Vivace sits between Allegro and Presto. Use it for movements that need infectious energy and sparkle — scherzos, tarantellas, finales. The word implies vitality and brilliance, not just speed.

Example

Beethoven's Symphony No. 9, second movement (Molto vivace) — the scherzo, with its explosive timpani strokes and whirlwind energy.

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