in music what does allegro mean?

http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/allegro

In music, "allegro" is an Italian term used to indicate the tempo or speed of a musical composition. It translates to "lively" or "fast". When a piece of music is marked as "allegro," it suggests that it should be played at a brisk and energetic pace.

To understand the meaning of "allegro" or any other musical term, you can follow these steps:

1. Consult a music dictionary: Look up the term in a music dictionary or a reliable online source dedicated to musical terms, such as Grove Music Online or Merriam-Webster's Online Music Dictionary.

2. Understand the language: Since many musical terms are written in Italian, it can be helpful to familiarize yourself with the basics of Italian musical terminology. This will make it easier to interpret different markings and directions in sheet music.

3. Analyze the context: Consider the context in which the term is used, such as the overall character of the piece or the composer's intention. This will give you a better understanding of how "allegro" should be interpreted in that specific musical composition.

Remember, while it's valuable to have a general knowledge of musical terms, the precise interpretation of a piece of music ultimately depends on the performer's judgment and the composer's intent as expressed through the notation.