spiritoso
A performance direction meaning with spirit, liveliness, and animated energy
In Depth
Spiritoso calls for a lively, spirited performance that is full of vitality without being aggressive. The character is bright and extroverted, the rhythms should bounce, and the articulation should be crisp and clear. It implies a positive, confident mood — the energy of celebration rather than conflict. The term was common in 18th-century music and often appears in finales and fast dance movements.
Handel used spiritoso in many of his instrumental works, reflecting the confident energy of the Baroque concerto style.