What does 'decrescendo' or 'diminuendo' indicate in a musical score?

'Decrescendo' or 'diminuendo' indicates a gradual decrease in volume during a musical passage. When a composer uses these terms in the score, it signifies that the music should progressively grow softer over time. This dynamic marking contributes to the emotional expression of the piece, allowing composers to create a sense of fading or subtlety that often enhances the overall mood or atmosphere.

In musical interpretation, understanding these dynamics is crucial for performers to convey the intended emotional arc of the music effectively. By executing a decrescendo or diminuendo, musicians can bring a delicate touch to their performance, allowing the notes to diminish naturally and creating a sense of intimacy or reflection within the musical context.