What is the meaning of 'dal segno' in musical notation?

The term 'dal segno' is an Italian phrase that translates directly to 'from the sign.' In musical notation, it instructs the musician to return to a specific sign (usually marked with the symbol that looks like a stylized 'S') in the score and continue playing from that point. This direction is often used to avoid repeating entire sections of music, allowing for a more concise rendition of the piece while still adhering to the composer's intentions.

In contrast, options related to starting over and tempo alterations do not accurately represent the meaning of 'dal segno.' It does not imply restarting from the beginning of a piece or indicate any changes in speed. Understanding these definitions is crucial for musicians as they interpret and perform musical scores accurately.