Vivacissimo
Definition. Very lively — the superlative of vivace, even quicker and more animated.
Detailed Explanation
Vivacissimo is the superlative form of vivace: ‘extremely lively’. In tempo terms it sits above vivace and approaches the territory of presto, but the spirit is what matters. Vivacissimo signals a maximum of brightness and animation, not merely a slight uptick in BPM.
The marking is less common than its parent, but composers reach for it when they want to push a vivace movement beyond its natural exuberance. Mendelssohn, Schumann, and Tchaikovsky use vivacissimo at climactic moments in scherzos and finales. The marking implies high spirits, light articulation, and a certain virtuoso shine.
In modern practice some conductors and performers treat vivacissimo as approximately equivalent to presto, but the connotation is different: presto is fast, vivacissimo is vivacious — bright and bouncing, not just rapid.
Etymology
Italian, superlative of vivace. The -issimo suffix amplifies to the extreme.
In Practice
Push the brightness more than the speed. Vivacissimo should feel like a kettle boiling over with energy. Technical clarity is paramount — at this level, sloppy playing destroys the spirit of the marking.
Notable Examples
- Mendelssohn — Symphony No. 4 ‘Italian’, finale (Saltarello marked Presto, but vivacissimo in feel)
- Tchaikovsky — Symphony No. 6, third movement (Allegro molto vivace)
Related Terms
Opposite Of
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Vivacissimo mean in music?
Very lively — the superlative of vivace, even quicker and more animated.
Where does the word Vivacissimo come from?
Italian, superlative of vivace. The -issimo suffix amplifies to the extreme.
How is Vivacissimo performed in practice?
Push the brightness more than the speed. Vivacissimo should feel like a kettle boiling over with energy. Technical clarity is paramount — at this level, sloppy playing destroys the spirit of the marking.
What musical terms are related to Vivacissimo?
Related terms include: Vivace, Presto, Prestissimo, Allegrissimo, Giocoso.
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