What does "Dal segno" or D.S. mean in music notation?

"Dal segno," often abbreviated as D.S., is a directive in music notation that instructs the performer to return to a specific sign in the music, typically marked with the "segno" symbol, which looks like an elaborate S with a line through it. This instruction allows for sections of a piece to be repeated without writing out the entire section again, thus preserving the structure of the music while making it easier to read and perform.

This practice of marking specific points in a composition enhances clarity and provides guidance on how to navigate through the music. The D.S. indication indicates precisely where to go back to, facilitating a smooth transition without confusion. Therefore, it indicates "from the sign," directing the musician to that particular spot in the score, which is essential for maintaining the flow of the piece.

The other options focus on different musical commands. Ending a piece, returning to the beginning, or playing softly are distinct instructions that do not relate to the specific function of "Dal segno."