Allegretto vs Allegro
Allegretto (112-120 BPM) is moderately fast with a light, graceful character, while allegro (120-156 BPM) is faster and more energetically driven.
Comparison
| Allegretto | Allegro | |
|---|---|---|
| BPM Range | 112-120 BPM | 120-156 BPM |
| Character | Moderately fast, light, graceful, elegant | Fast, energetic, bright, driving |
Detailed Comparison
Allegretto and allegro share an Italian root — 'allegro' meaning cheerful or lively — but the diminutive '-etto' suffix makes allegretto 'a little lively,' a meaningful distinction in both tempo and character. Allegretto sits at 112-120 BPM, occupying the space between moderato and allegro, while allegro ranges from 120-156 BPM as the standard fast tempo in classical music.
The character difference is just as important as the speed gap. Allegretto has a light, graceful quality — pleasant and forward-moving without the driving urgency of allegro. It is the tempo of charm and elegance. Allegro, by contrast, is assertive and energetic, the tempo that powers the most dramatic and exciting movements in the repertoire.
Beethoven's Symphony No. 7 offers a perfect case study. Its famous second movement is marked Allegretto — not a slow movement at all, but a dignified, processional tempo with a steady, hypnotic pulse. Compare that to the symphony's first movement Vivace, which bursts with exuberant energy. Allegretto proves that 'moderately fast' can carry tremendous emotional weight when handled with the right character.
When to Use Allegretto
Use allegretto for passages that need gentle forward momentum with a light, graceful character — ideal for movements that are lively but not urgent.
When to Use Allegro
Use allegro for passages that demand bright, energetic drive — the go-to tempo for fast movements, sonata-form openings, and spirited finales.
FAQ
Is allegretto slower than allegro?
Yes, allegretto is slower than allegro. The '-etto' diminutive suffix means 'a little,' making allegretto 'a little lively' at 112-120 BPM, compared to allegro's full liveliness at 120-156 BPM.
What does the '-etto' suffix mean in Italian tempo markings?
The '-etto' suffix is an Italian diminutive meaning 'a little' or 'somewhat less.' It softens the base marking: allegretto is a little less than allegro, larghetto is a little less than largo, and adagietto is a little less than adagio.
Related References
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