Tempowechsel

change of tempo; shift in speed during a musical performance

noun TEM-poh-vek-sel Rare

Usage Note

Tempowechsel describes a deliberate shift in musical pace, whether gradual (ritardando/accelerando) or sudden (subito). Handling of Tempowechsel is a key criterion for judging a conductor or soloist.

Examples

"Der plötzliche Tempowechsel im dritten Satz überraschte das Publikum."

Natural Translation

The sudden change of tempo in the third movement surprised the audience.

Literal Translation

The sudden tempo-change in the third movement surprised the audience.

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