tempo giusto

music

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June 11, 2026

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The term "giusto" in music is an Italian direction indicating that a piece should be played "in strict tempo" or "with exactness". Tempo itself refers to the speed or pacing of a piece of music, acting as a vital element of expression. While tempo markings were not always common in Western classical music, they became more prevalent from the 16th century onwards.123

Tempo can be indicated verbally, often using Italian terms like allegro (fast) or andante (moderately slow), or through metronomic designations, such as beats per minute (BPM). The interpretation of tempo can vary across cultures and even among performers of the same piece. "Giusto" specifically calls for a precise and unvarying pace, contrasting with more flexible tempo indications like tempo rubato.21

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folk music
Singing styles
…which he named parlando-rubato and tempo giusto. Parlando-rubato, stressing the words, departs frequently from strict metric and rhythmic patterns and is often highly ornamented, while tempo giusto follows metric patterns and maintains an even tempo. Both singing styles can be heard in many parts of Europe and in European-derived folk…
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…which he named parlando-rubato and tempo giusto. Parlando-rubato, stressing the words, departs frequently from strict metric and rhythmic patterns and is often highly ornamented, while tempo giusto follows metric patterns and maintains an even tempo. Both singing styles can be heard in many parts of Europe and in European-derived folk…
Read More