velocity
English composer
Definition
The controlled ability to play rapid passages cleanly at high tempos without tension, blurring, or loss of tone quality. Czerny's core pedagogical aim.
Interpretive Guidance
Velocity is built slowly. Czerny's own teaching method (described in the School of Practical Composition) advocated practising each étude at a tempo where every note is perfectly clear before increasing speed. Rushing to tempo is counterproductive. Use dotted rhythms to build finger independence before playing evenly.