What does leggiero mean when describing a musical passage?

Leggiero is an Italian term that means 'lightly.' When used to describe a musical passage, it indicates that the notes should be played in a light, delicate manner, giving a sense of grace and subtlety to the performance. This style contrasts with heavier or more forceful articulations, allowing the musician to convey a sense of agility and gentleness. Additionally, applying leggiero often requires the performer to utilize a lighter touch on their instrument and to focus on clarity and articulation, ensuring that each note is distinct yet not overly emphasized. This approach creates a more ethereal or airy quality in the music, aligning perfectly with the meaning of the term.