vivace

This term is a technical musical directive borrowed directly from Italian. It functions as a tempo marking, instructing the performer to play with a spirited, energetic, and brisk quality. While it describes speed, it emphasizes the emotional character of the music—lively and full of life—rather than just a metronomic beat.

In a professional musical score, it is used as a standalone instruction or as part of a larger phrase. Because it is a specialized term of art, it is rarely used in general conversation outside of music theory or performance contexts. It is distinct from "allegro," which also means fast, but "vivace" typically implies a more vivid, sparkling energy.