What does "L'istesso tempo" mean?

"L'istesso tempo" is an Italian musical term that translates to "the same tempo." This notation is often used in scores to indicate that a passage should be played at the same speed as the previous section, despite any changes in time signature or other musical aspects. It serves as a reminder for performers to maintain consistency in tempo, emphasizing the importance of a smooth transition between different parts of the music. This term is particularly useful in complex compositions where maintaining the flow of the music is essential.