In musical notation, how is tempo typically expressed?

Tempo in musical notation is typically expressed using beats per minute. This quantitative measurement provides a precise indication of how fast or slow a piece of music should be performed. For instance, a tempo marking of 120 beats per minute means that there are 120 quarter notes played in one minute, creating a clear and standardized way for musicians to interpret the speed of a piece.

While note values are essential for determining the rhythm and duration of notes within a measure, they do not provide information about the overall pacing of the music. Key signatures indicate the scale on which a piece is based, dictating which notes are sharp or flat, but they have no bearing on tempo. Dynamics markings guide the performer on how loudly or softly to play, focusing on volume rather than speed. Thus, beats per minute stands out as the specific method of conveying tempo in musical notation.