alla breve
"Alla breve" is an Italian term meaning "in the shortened fashion," commonly used in music to describe a specific time signature.
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Definition
C1Music Theory
(technical, formal)A time signature where the half note is one beat, resulting in two beats per measure, often indicated by 2/2 or a 'C' with a vertical line through it.
Example
- The piece is written in alla breve, giving it a brisk and lively tempo.
- Marches often use alla breve to maintain a strong, driving rhythm.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "alla breve":