What does "rallentando" indicate about the tempo?

"Rallentando" is a musical term that directs the performer to gradually decrease the tempo over a passage of music. This slowing down can create an expressive effect, helping to convey emotions such as tension or anticipation. It invites a smoother, more relaxed tempo as the music progresses, allowing for a natural ebb and flow in the performance.

In the context of musical expression, "rallentando" often indicates that the dynamics and mood may shift as the tempo decreases, enhancing the overall interpretation of the piece. Understanding this term is crucial for performers, as it significantly impacts the delivery of a musical phrase, encouraging them to interpret the slowing of tempo with sensitivity and awareness of its emotional context.