What does 'senza' mean in musical instruction?

The term 'senza' is an Italian word used in musical instruction and translates to "without." It is a directive often found in sheet music to indicate that a specific element should not be present in the performance. For example, if a piece is marked "senza sordino," it indicates that the performer should play without a mute. This helps convey the desired sound and emotional quality of the music, allowing performers to interpret the score in line with the composer’s intentions. Understanding terms like 'senza' is crucial for musicians as it contributes significantly to musical interpretation and expression.