About Moderato
Middle ground. Neither hurried nor slow, often used for themes that need clarity.
Every tempo in the Moderato range
Pieces you may already know at Moderato
The quickest way to feel a tempo is to hum a piece written at it. These carry the marking Moderato in the score, or are almost always played in its range.
- Piano Concerto No. 2, 1st movement — Rachmaninoff
Opens Moderato with the tolling piano chords.
- Symphony No. 8 "Unfinished", 1st movement — Schubert
Allegro moderato — quick in name, restrained in feel.
- Gymnopédie No. 1 — Satie
Marked "Lent et douloureux", but usually taken around the Moderato/Andante border.
In today's music: Relaxed pop and reggaeton, about 108–120 BPM — a comfortable head-nod.
Questions
What BPM is Moderato?
Moderato is usually given as about 120 BPM, with 114 BPM a typical middle value. Editions and traditions differ, so treat the range as a guide.
What does Moderato mean?
Moderately. Middle ground. Neither hurried nor slow, often used for themes that need clarity.
How do I practise a Moderato passage?
Start near 54–57 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.