What is the term used to describe the musical speed or pace of a piece?

Tempo is the term used to describe the musical speed or pace of a piece. It indicates how fast or slow the music should be played and is typically measured in beats per minute (BPM). Understanding tempo is essential for musicians as it affects the overall feel and energy of a piece. For example, a faster tempo can create a sense of excitement or urgency, while a slower tempo can evoke feelings of calm or introspection.

Other options address different musical concepts: dynamics relate to the volume of the music, rhythm refers to the pattern of sounds and silences in music, while timbre describes the unique quality or color of a sound that distinguishes different instruments or voices. Each of these elements plays a crucial role in music, but when it comes to determining the speed at which a piece is performed, tempo is the key term.