What does 'meno mosso' indicate regarding the tempo of the music?

The term 'meno mosso' is an Italian musical instruction that translates to 'less movement.' In the context of tempo, it indicates that the music should be played at a slower pace than what has previously been indicated. This term is commonly used in musical scores to inform performers that they should reduce the speed of the music, resulting in a more relaxed and expressive interpretation. By understanding this definition, it's clear why the notion of 'less movement' aligns perfectly with the indication to decrease tempo.

The other options do not accurately reflect the meaning of 'meno mosso'. For instance, 'more movement' suggests an increase in tempo, which directly contradicts what 'meno mosso' implies. Similarly, descriptions like 'light and quick' or 'marked or stressed' do not relate to the slowing down of tempo that 'meno mosso' denotes. Thus, recognizing 'meno mosso' as a directive for a slower tempo is fundamental to grasping its role in musical performance.