Vivace assai

As Printed on a Score

Printed above the first system as a heading and in force until the next tempo word. In études and finales it may govern the whole piece, with any momentary slowing marked poco rit. and cancelled by a tempo.

How Composers Use It

Very lively: vivace intensified toward the speed of presto, but still primarily a word about animation and spirit. It suits brilliant études and finales whose figuration should sparkle. Because assai pushes vivace close to presto, decide which you mean: Presto names speed, Vivace assai names a lively character pushed to the fast end. Give performers figuration that stays clear at that speed.

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