What is the meaning of Agitato in performance terms?

• A. Calm and peaceful
• B. Agitated
• C. Loud and forceful
• D. Slow and gentle

Answer: (B)

Agitato signals a restless, agitated character in performance. It asks you to play with urgent energy and a driving sense of motion, often using sharper attack, quicker accents, and a more forward, less smooth phrasing. The emphasis is on mood—conveying agitation and intensity—more than simply being loud or slow. You might tighten the tempo feel within a passage or make articulation more pointed to reflect the unsettled character, without committing to a pure tempo change or a soft, lyrical line. In context, agitato helps create contrast with calmer, more tranquil music, giving the piece emotional variety.