Deciphering Tempo Markings in Music

The video tutorial explains the concept of tempo in music, likening it to a speedometer. It details how tempo markings in sheet music indicate the speed of a piece, using a note, an equal sign, and a number to denote beats per minute (BPM). The tutorial demonstrates using a metronome to match tempo markings and discusses the adjective system of tempo, which uses words to describe a range of tempos. The video concludes with a suggestion to explore more music theory resources.

What does the tempo of a piece of music measure?

• The pitch of the notes

• How fast or slow the music is played

• The key signature of the music

• The volume of the music

In modern sheet music, what does a tempo marking typically include?

• A note, an equal sign, and a number

• A key signature, a note, and a number

• A clef, a time signature, and a note

• A note, a rest, and a number

What does the number in a tempo marking represent?

• The number of notes per measure

• The number of beats per minute

• The number of rests per minute

• The number of measures per minute

What is the frame of reference for the number in a tempo marking?

• SPM (steps per minute)

• BPM (beats per minute)

• MPH (miles per hour)

• KPH (kilometers per hour)

If a tempo marking is quarter note equals 76, how many quarter notes should there be per minute?

• 120

• 76

• 60

• 100

What tool can be used to set and change the tempo of a piece of music?

• A tuner

• A pitch pipe

• A metronome

• A stopwatch

How does changing the metronome setting from 76 to 112 BPM affect the music?

• It makes the music faster

• It changes the volume of the music

• It changes the key of the music

• It makes the music slower

What do words like Largo, Adagio, and Allegro represent in older tempo markings?

• Specific tempos

• Musical genres

• Types of instruments

• Ranges of tempo

Which tempo marking represents a range of 30 to 60 beats per minute?

• Allegro

• Presto

• Largo

• Moderato

Which of the following is NOT a commonly used adjective to describe tempo?

• Vivace

• Andante

• Adagio

• Largo