What does "Espressivo" or espress. suggest a performer should do?

The term "Espressivo" or its abbreviation "espress." is a musical directive that indicates the performer should interpret the music with emotional expression and feeling. This instruction encourages musicians to convey the underlying emotions of the piece, utilizing dynamics, phrasing, and touch to enhance the expressiveness of their performance. By playing expressively, the performer connects with the audience and communicates the character of the music more effectively.

In this context, the term serves as a reminder to go beyond just playing the notes accurately; it calls for a deeper engagement with the music that reflects personal interpretation and emotional depth. This is essential in many expressive styles across genres, particularly in classical music, where conveying feelings can significantly impact the listener's experience.