The term Leggiero indicates which characteristic?

• A. Heavy and slow
• B. Light, nimble, quick; sometimes non-legato
• C. Loud and harsh
• D. Slow and deliberate

Answer: (B)

Leggiero describes character and articulation: lightness, nimbleness, and quickness in the attack. Play with a delicate, buoyant touch and clean, fast attacks so the line feels airy and agile rather than heavy. Depending on the tempo and phrasing, you may keep the notes connected but with a light, restrained feel, or even introduce a slight detach to preserve that light character—this mirrors the idea that it can be “sometimes non-legato.” This makes it distinct from heavy and slow, loud and harsh, or slow and deliberate, which convey weight, intensity, or a deliberate pace.