L'istesso tempo or lo stesso tempo meaning`Lo stesso tempo` and `l'istesso tempo` both mean "the same tempo" in Italian. They indicate that, despite changes in note values or time signature, the tempo or speed of the music should remain the same.
For example, if the music changes from 4/4 time to 2/2 time but `l'istesso tempo` is indicated, that means the quarter notes remain the same duration and the tempo does not actually change. **It simply shows that the beat unit has changed from a quarter note to a half note.**
`L'istesso tempo` is used when a composer wants the music to maintain its original tempo or pacing, even through apparent changes in the notation. This allows for melodic or rhythmic variations while keeping a uniform speed.
In summary, `l'istesso tempo` and `lo stesso tempo` are Italian instructions telling musicians to maintain the same tempo, despite notational changes that may suggest otherwise.
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