Which musical term would you associate with the phrase 'perform with expression'?

The phrase 'perform with expression' is closely associated with the musical term that directly translates to "with expression" in Italian: "con espressione." This term indicates that performers should imbue their playing or singing with emotional depth, dynamics, and feeling. It encourages the artist to go beyond mere technical execution and to connect with the emotional content of the music, making it resonate more profoundly with listeners.

Cantabile, while related to a singing style meant to be performed smoothly and gracefully, does not explicitly call for emotional expression in the same way. Con fuoco translates to "with fire," suggesting intensity and fervor, but not necessarily expression in a broader sense. Con moto means "with motion," indicating a lively or animated tempo, which does not require the emotional engagement implied by the phrase 'perform with expression.' Therefore, the term that best captures the essence of expressing feelings in music is indeed con espressione.