What does “tempo” refer to in music?

Tempo in music refers specifically to the speed at which a piece of music is performed. It is a crucial element that dictates the overall pace and feel of the music, and it is often measured in beats per minute (BPM). For instance, a fast tempo may give a piece an energetic and lively character, while a slow tempo can create a more reflective or somber mood.

Understanding tempo is essential for musicians because it influences how a piece is interpreted and experienced by the audience, creating an emotional impact and affecting dynamics within the performance. In written music, tempo is frequently indicated at the beginning of a piece with terms like "Allegro" (fast) or "Adagio" (slow), or by specific BPM markings.

The other options refer to different aspects of music. Volume pertains to how loud or soft the music is played. Style involves the genre or characteristics that define a particular piece, such as classical or jazz. The key refers to the specific scale or tonal center of the composition, determining the pitches that are used throughout the piece. Therefore, tempo is distinctively focused on the speed of the performance.