What does the term "Cédez" instruct a musician to do?

The term "Cédez" instructs a musician to yield or hold the tempo back, indicating a slight slowing down in the music. This directive is often used in performance to create a sense of relaxation or to provide a more expressive interpretation of a passage. When a musician sees "Cédez" in the score, it's a cue to allow for a more flexible approach to timing, often making the musical phrase feel more lyrical or emotive.

Understanding this term is crucial for achieving the intended musical expression set by the composer, as the use of tempo variations can significantly enhance the emotional impact of a piece.