What does the term accelerando indicate regarding tempo?

The term "accelerando" signifies a gradual increase in tempo, meaning that the music should become faster over time. This instruction is commonly used in musical compositions to create a sense of excitement or intensity that builds as the piece progresses. When a composer indicates "accelerando," they are directing performers to increase their playing speed in a controlled manner, rather than abruptly changing tempo. This helps to create a flowing and dynamic experience in the music, enhancing the emotional impact of the piece.

In the context of the other options, while "to slow down gradually" refers to a deceleration, "to maintain the same speed" indicates a steady tempo, and "to play softly" pertains to dynamics rather than tempo. These terms do not align with the fundamental definition of "accelerando," which is all about increasing speed in a gradual manner. Understanding this distinction is crucial for interpreting musical directions accurately and for achieving the intended expressiveness in performance.