What does "lento" signify in a musical piece?

"Lento" is an Italian musical term that indicates a slow tempo. In music, tempo refers to the speed at which a piece of music is played, and "lento" specifically suggests a pace that is leisurely and drawn out, typically slower than moderate tempo markers such as "andante" or "moderato."

This term is commonly used in sheet music to convey to musicians that they should perform the piece with a gentler, more relaxed feel, allowing for greater expression and nuance. Understanding these tempo markings is essential for musicians to interpret and convey the intended emotion and character of the piece accurately.