What does the term 'legato' indicate about the performance of notes?

The term 'legato' indicates that notes should be performed smoothly connected to one another. In legato playing, each note transitions seamlessly into the next without any noticeable breaks or gaps in sound. This technique creates a flowing, lyrical quality in the music, which is essential for conveying emotion and expression in the performance.

Legato is often contrasted with staccato playing, where notes are played in a detached and separated manner. While staccato creates a punctuated effect, legato is all about continuity and cohesion. This distinction is important for musicians to understand, as it affects the overall character and interpretation of a piece of music. Therefore, the correct answer reflects the foundational concept of how legato playing contributes to the expressiveness of music.