Accelerando, a musical term derived from the Italian word for “accelerate,” refers to a gradual increase in tempo within a piece. This technique adds excitement, tension, and a sense of building momentum, making it a favorite among composers and performers alike. Whether you’re a musician looking to understand how accelerando is used or a music enthusiast eager to identify these moments in your favorite songs, this list provides concrete examples across various genres to deepen your appreciation. Here are some notable songs that feature prominent accelerando passages, each worth exploring for their musical craftsmanship and expressive power.
1. Beethoven’s Symphony No.5 in C Minor, Op. 67
One of classical music’s most iconic movements, Beethoven’s Symphony No.5 begins with a famous motif that accelerates as the movement progresses. The transition from the Allegro to the Allegro con brio section features a compelling accelerando that drives the momentum forward, culminating in a triumphant, energetic climax. This use of accelerando exemplifies Beethoven’s mastery in manipulating tempo to evoke emotional intensity and excitement.
2. Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” (Operatic Section)
In the operatic segment of “Bohemian Rhapsody,” Queen employs a subtle but effective accelerando as the section builds toward the climax. The tempo gradually increases to heighten drama, leading into the powerful rock segment. This compositional choice amplifies the theatricality of the piece, showcasing how accelerando can enhance storytelling within popular music.
3. Chopin’s Étude Op. 10 No. 12 “Revolutionary”
This virtuosic piano étude features moments where Chopin employs accelerando to intensify the technical challenge and emotional impact. Particularly in the middle section, the tempo subtly picks up, emphasizing the fiery, revolutionary spirit of the piece. It’s a prime example of how accelerando can be used to express urgency and passion in solo piano music.
4. Miles Davis’ “So What” (Modal Jazz)
While jazz often relies on rhythmic flexibility, Miles Davis’ “So What” includes sections where the tempo gradually accelerates during solos, creating a sense of increasing energy. The subtle accelerando enhances improvisational tension and highlights the dynamic interplay between musicians. This demonstrates how accelerando can be integrated into improvisational and modal jazz contexts for expressive effect.
5. Igor Stravinsky’s “The Rite of Spring” (Sacrificial Dance)
Stravinsky’s groundbreaking ballet features passages where the tempo accelerates dramatically, especially during the frenetic “Sacrificial Dance.” The accelerando heightens the chaos and primal energy, immersing the listener in a visceral experience. This example illustrates how accelerando can be used to evoke raw emotion and intensity in orchestral music.
6. The Beatles’ “A Day in the Life” (Orchestral Crescendo)
In the final orchestral crescendo of “A Day in the Life,” The Beatles employ a gradual accelerando as the orchestra swells to a climax. The tempo increase adds urgency and grandeur to the song’s conclusion, exemplifying how accelerando can serve as a powerful tool in popular music production. It also demonstrates the technique’s versatility beyond classical and jazz genres.
7. Franz Liszt’s “Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2”
This virtuosic piano piece features sections where Liszt employs accelerando to build excitement and showcase technical prowess. The rapid tempo increases, especially during the coda, create a thrilling conclusion that leaves listeners in awe. It’s a perfect example of accelerando used to evoke a sense of unstoppable energy and flamboyance.
8. Pink Floyd’s “Time” (Clocks Section)
In “Time,” Pink Floyd subtly incorporates accelerando during the transition from the intro to the main song, increasing the tempo to create a sense of urgency and awakening. The technique enhances the song’s themes of fleeting time and existential reflection, demonstrating how accelerando can serve thematic storytelling in progressive rock.
9. Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” (Finale)
The grand finale of Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” features a notable accelerando as the orchestral forces build toward the climactic cannon fire. The increasing tempo amplifies the sense of chaos and triumph, making it a quintessential example of accelerando used in large-scale orchestral works for dramatic effect.
10. Radiohead’s “2+2=5”
In this song from Radiohead’s album “Hail to the Thief,” the tempo gradually accelerates during the chorus, heightening the song’s sense of urgency and rebellion. The use of accelerando complements the song’s themes of societal tension and unrest, illustrating how modern bands incorporate tempo changes to evoke emotional responses.
How to Choose
When selecting songs with accelerando, consider the context in which the tempo change occurs. Look for passages where the acceleration enhances emotional expressiveness or dramatic tension. Also, pay attention to the genre and how the accelerando fits within the overall structure of the piece. Whether you prefer classical grandeur, jazz improvisation, or rock dynamics, choosing examples that resonate with your musical taste will deepen your appreciation of how accelerando functions across styles.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is accelerando in music? It is a gradual increase in tempo within a piece, used to build excitement or tension.
- How is accelerando notated? Usually with the abbreviation “accel.” or a dashed line above the staff indicating a gradual speed-up.
- Can accelerando be used in all genres? Yes, it appears in classical, jazz, rock, pop, and electronic music, each utilizing it for different expressive purposes.
- What is the difference between accelerando and ritardando? Accelerando speeds up the music gradually, while ritardando slows it down.
- Are there common pitfalls when using accelerando? Overusing it can disrupt the flow; it should be employed thoughtfully to enhance musical narrative.
Final Thoughts
Accelerando is a powerful musical technique that can transform a static passage into a dynamic crescendo of energy. From the dramatic orchestrations of Tchaikovsky to the innovative pop arrangements of Queen and Radiohead, this device enhances emotional impact and keeps listeners engaged. Exploring these examples not only deepens your understanding of musical structure but also inspires your own performances and listening experiences. Whether used sparingly or extensively, accelerando remains a vital tool for musicians seeking to evoke excitement, urgency, and a sense of progression in their art.
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