What does 'cantabile' imply regarding music performance?

The term 'cantabile' originates from the Italian word for "singable" and is commonly used in music to indicate that a passage should be performed in a lyrical, expressive manner, emulating the qualities of a song. When a musician sees 'cantabile' in the score, it signals them to interpret the music in a way that emphasizes a smooth, flowing line, much like that of a vocalist. This indicates not just a series of notes, but a musical phrase that should be delivered with emotional depth and a sense of song-like quality.

Understanding this term is crucial for musicians aiming to convey the intended emotional expression in their performance, making 'in a singing style' the most fitting interpretation of what 'cantabile' demands in terms of performance.