Presto BPM

176 — 200 BPM

Presto — Very fast

Typical midpoint: 188 BPM · 319 ms per beat

What is Presto?

Presto indicates a very fast tempo, creating intense energy and excitement. At 176-200 BPM, Presto is reserved for finale movements demanding virtuoso technique. Some drum and bass, hardcore punk, speed metal, and bebop jazz pieces sit in this range.

What does Presto mean?

Etymology: From the Italian "presto," meaning quick, swift, or ready. Same root as the English magic word "presto" (denoting sudden appearance) and "preset."

Literal translation: Very fast

History of Presto as a tempo marking

Used by Mozart, Beethoven, and Liszt for showpiece finales. In Italian commedia dell'arte tradition, "presto" was a stage direction for sudden appearances and rapid action.

Famous Presto pieces

Piece	Composer	BPM
Sonata in C major K.330 (Allegretto / Presto)	Mozart	184
Symphony No. 7 (Presto, 3rd mvt)	Beethoven	132
Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2 (Presto finale)	Liszt	196
Concerto No. 3 in F major "Autumn" (Allegro / Presto)	Vivaldi	180

Modern genres at Presto tempo

While Presto originated as a classical music marking, the 176-200 BPM range covers many modern genres:

Hardcore punk
Speed metal
Bebop
Fast drum and bass
Speedcore

Presto compared to neighbouring tempos

Marking	BPM Range	Meaning
Vivace (slower)	156-176	Lively and fast
Presto	176-200	Very fast
Prestissimo (faster)	200-250	Extremely fast

Want to check if your track is at Presto tempo?

Use the Tap Tempo Tool

See the full tempo markings guide, browse BPM by genre, or check the BPM reference for any specific tempo.