What does 'Vivace' direct the musician to do?

The term 'Vivace' is an Italian musical term that means to perform a piece with liveliness and a fast tempo. It typically indicates that the music should be played cheerfully and at a brisk pace, making it one of the faster terms used in music notation. This direction is meant to convey a sense of excitement and energy in the performance, which is why 'Play lively and fast' is aligned with this meaning.

Other options suggest playing with different qualities or tempos that do not align with the definition of 'Vivace.' For instance, playing with warmth would imply a different interpretation focusing on tone rather than speed, while playing softly relates to dynamics rather than tempo. Lastly, playing in a slow and relaxed manner directly contradicts the liveliness that 'Vivace' aims to express, as it suggests a calmness and a leisurely pace. Thus, the correct interpretation captures the essence of the term and conveys the spirit of the musical directive effectively.