What does sostenuto indicate about tempo/articulation?

• A. Play faster with more separation.
• B. Return to the previous tempo after a ritardando.
• C. Sustain notes with a smooth, connected feel.
• D. Slow down dramatically at the end.

Answer: (C)

Sostenuto indicates sustaining notes to create a smooth, connected line. It focuses on how long notes ring and how they connect, not on changing speed. On keyboard instruments, it can involve using the sostenuto pedal to hold specific notes so others continue normally, producing a legato, lyrical effect. It does not imply speeding up with more separation, returning to a previous tempo after a ritardando, or slowing down dramatically at the end.