Definition

1. Noun:
   • A musical time signature indicating two or four half notes to a measure: In musical notation, "alla breve" is a time signature or tempo marking that signifies a quick duple meter, typically notated as 𝄴 (a "C" with a vertical line through it). It instructs performers to take two beats per measure, with the half note (minim) receiving one beat, resulting in a faster overall tempo than the note values might otherwise suggest.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The conductor explained that the symphony's final movement was marked "alla breve," so the orchestra played it with a brisk, two-in-a-bar feel.
  • When you see the cut-time symbol, remember it means "alla breve," and you should count two strong beats per measure.

Advanced Usage

• As a tempo/meter indication: While primarily a meter signature, "alla breve" often implies a faster tempo. A conductor might say, "Let's take this section alla breve," to mean both adopting the cut-time meter and a livelier pace.
• Historical context: Originally, in the Renaissance and Baroque periods, "alla breve" (Italian for "in the short manner") indicated that the tactus (basic pulse) moved at the level of the breve (hence "shortening" the note values), leading to a proportionally faster performance.

Variants and Related Words

• Cut time: (n) A common English term for the 𝄴 time signature, synonymous with "alla breve."
• 𝄴 (symbol): The musical symbol representing "alla breve" or cut time.

Synonyms

• Cut time: A direct synonym in common musical parlance.
• Duple meter at a fast tempo: A descriptive phrase for the effect of "alla breve."

Related Idioms or Phrases

• : This English phrase is functionally identical to "alla breve" and is often used interchangeably in rehearsal instructions.
  • Play the march in cut time for a more military sound.

Noun

1. a musical time signature indicating two or four half notes to a measure