Which term indicates energy and boldness in performance?

• A. Con brio, brioso
• B. Con amore
• C. Rinforzando
• D. Sforzando

Answer: (A)

Energy and boldness in performance come from markings that request a spirited character throughout the music. Con brio means with vigor and brightness, calling you to play with lively movement and driven energy. Brioso adds a bold, spirited quality—think of it as a confident, animated style. Put together, these terms push you to maintain a buoyant, assertive feel across the passage, shaping how you respond to phrasing, tempo, and dynamics.

In contrast, con amore means with love or tenderness, guiding you to a warmer, more affectionate mood rather than sheer energy. Rinforzando signals a reinforcement on a note or chord, a sudden push in volume or emphasis, but not a broad directive for the entire line. Sforzando marks a strong, abrupt accent on a note or chord, again focusing on a momentary emphasis rather than a sustained character. So the expressions that best convey energy and boldness are con brio and brioso.