Accelerando

usgb/əkˌseləˈrændəʊ/
adverb

Increasing in speed.

The composer marked the score with 'accelerando' to indicate the piece should gradually speed up.
Visual representation of "accelerando" - Increasing in speed.

Often appears as...

  • marked as accelerando
  • play accelerando

Usage tips

Technical

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "accelerando"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Music Direction

Used by composers to direct musicians to gradually increase tempo.

Illustration for Music Direction
There's an 'accelerando' after the intro, so keep pace with the drums.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Emotional Intensity

Often signifies a build-up of emotion or tension in the music.

Illustration for Emotional Intensity
Feel the 'accelerando' as the music sweeps you up in the excitement.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Sudden

The speed increases gradually, not instantly or abruptly.

Illustration for Not Sudden
From the 'accelerando' cue, slowly pick up the pace.
Visual representation of the word "Accelerando"

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