Changes of tempo · Tempo, dynamics and articulation · Music theory
During the piece, the tempo can shift gradually or stop. The fermata, a dot under an arc, lengthens a note or a rest for as long as the performer decides.
Changes of tempo
During the piece, the tempo can shift gradually or stop. The fermata, a dot under an arc, lengthens a note or a rest for as long as the performer decides.
More markings that move the tempo
Ritardando and rallentando are gradual; ritenuto, by contrast, usually means an immediate holding back. Stringendo speeds up by tightening, with more tension than accelerando. To go back there are a tempo and tempo primo.
The fermata does not always lengthen equally: over a bar line or a rest it marks a break or a wait, and in a Classical concerto it marks the place of the soloist’s cadenza.