Tempo (Italian for 'time') is the rate at which a musical composition is performed. Tempo is measured in beats per minute (BPM). Sometimes the tempo is written at the beginning of the music and is called a metronome marking. Tempo and stylistic feel are also often indicated by Italian terminology, which describes the general speed (and often the mood) of a piece or section. Allegro, andante, and adagio are common tempo markings.