About Andante
Literally "walking". Comfortable and flowing — close to a relaxed stroll.
Every tempo in the Andante range
Pieces you may already know at Andante
The quickest way to feel a tempo is to hum a piece written at it. These carry the marking Andante in the score, or are almost always played in its range.
- Piano Concerto No. 21, 2nd movement — Mozart
The "Elvira Madigan" Andante — a walking bass under a floating melody.
- Nocturne Op. 9 No. 2 — Chopin
Marked Andante; the left hand literally walks in 12/8.
- Symphony No. 94 "Surprise", 2nd movement — Haydn
Andante — the quiet tune before the famous loud chord.
- Symphony No. 5, 2nd movement — Beethoven
Andante con moto — "with motion", so toward the upper end of the range.
In today's music: The hip-hop and mid-tempo pop zone (80–100 BPM). "Billie Jean" is close to the top of Andante.
Questions
What BPM is Andante?
Andante is usually given as about 108 BPM, with 92 BPM a typical middle value. Editions and traditions differ, so treat the range as a guide.
What does Andante mean?
At a walking pace. Literally "walking". Comfortable and flowing — close to a relaxed stroll.
How do I practise a Andante passage?
Start near 38–46 BPM so the notes are accurate, then step up by about 5 BPM until you reach the marked tempo.
Tempo ranges are approximate and differ between editions, periods and performers.