What does the term legato indicate?

The term legato is used in music to instruct players to perform notes in a smooth and connected manner. This means that each note should transition seamlessly into the next without any perceptible breaks or gaps in sound. When a musician plays legato, they maintain a fluid and flowing tone, which creates a lyrical and expressive quality in music. This technique is essential for conveying emotions and enhancing the musical line, making the performance more cohesive.

The other terms listed describe different playing techniques: playing briskly refers to a quick tempo; accentuating notes involves emphasizing certain sounds for added contrast; and playing loudly indicates a volume dynamic rather than the connection of notes. Understanding legato is key for achieving expressive interpretations in piano performance and is crucial for level 10 musicianship.