What does "prestissimo" imply about the tempo of a piece?

Study for the ABRSM Grade 5 Music Theory Test. Dive into multiple choice questions, flashcards, hints, and explanations. Build confidence and get ready for your test!

"Prestissimo" is an Italian term used in music to indicate an extremely fast tempo. It is traditionally understood as being even faster than "presto," which itself denotes a very rapid pace. This term is often used in compositions that require a lively or intense speed, and musicians interpret it as urging them to perform as quickly as possible within the bounds of playability.

Choosing the option referring to it as faster than "presto" accurately reflects the commonly accepted use of the term in the context of tempo markings. While other tempo terms such as "allegro" and "moderato" indicate fast and moderate speeds respectively, those do not pertain to "prestissimo" which specifically highlights an even greater urgency in tempo.

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