Which characteristics defines how fast or slow composition is?

Harmony
melody
tempo
rythym

Tempo is the characteristic that defines how fast or slow a composition is.

The characteristic that specifically defines how fast or slow a composition is is tempo. Tempo refers to the speed at which the music is performed or the rate at which the beats occur. It determines the overall pace and feel of a piece of music. Harmony, melody, and rhythm, on the other hand, are elements that contribute to the overall structure, texture, and style of a composition, but they do not directly determine the speed at which the music is played.

The characteristic that defines how fast or slow a composition is called "tempo." Tempo refers to the speed at which a piece of music is played or performed. It determines the pace and overall feeling of a musical composition.

To identify and understand the tempo of a composition, you can do the following:

1. Listen to the music: Pay attention to the speed at which the notes are being played. Is it fast, moderate, or slow? This will give you a general sense of the tempo.

2. Look for tempo indications: Some compositions include tempo indications such as "Allegro" (fast), "Moderato" (moderate), or "Adagio" (slow) to give you an idea of the intended tempo. These indications are typically written at the beginning of the music or throughout the piece.

3. Observe the time signature: The time signature in sheet music can also provide information about the tempo. For example, a piece written in 4/4 time signature typically has a moderate tempo, while a piece written in 3/4 time signature often has a waltz-like or moderate tempo.

4. Use a metronome: A metronome is a device that produces regular ticks or clicks at a specific tempo. By setting the metronome to the desired tempo, you can compare it to the speed of the composition and determine its tempo.

Overall, tempo is an essential characteristic that influences the mood, energy, and overall interpretation of a musical composition.