Pieces you may already know at Presto
The quickest way to feel a tempo is to hum a piece written at it. These carry the marking Presto in the score, or are almost always played in its range.
- Piano Sonata No. 14 "Moonlight", 3rd movement — Beethoven
Presto agitato — the storm after the famous slow opening.
- The Four Seasons, "Summer", 3rd movement — Vivaldi
The Presto thunderstorm; often near 180 BPM.
- Waltz Op. 64 No. 1 "Minute Waltz" — Chopin
Marked Molto vivace, but played at a Presto pace by most pianists.
- Symphony No. 9, finale (opening) — Beethoven
The finale begins Presto before the "Ode to Joy" theme arrives.
In today's music: Drum and bass and hardcore techno live here (170–200 BPM), usually felt in half time.
Questions
What BPM is Presto?
Presto is usually given as about 200 BPM, with 184 BPM a typical middle value. Editions and traditions differ, so treat the range as a guide.
What does Presto mean?
Very fast. Very fast. Demands clean fingering — practise well below tempo first.
How do I practise a Presto passage?
Start near 84–92 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.