What does broadly mean in musical terms?

In musical terms, "broadly" refers to a direction to perform a musical passage in a wide, expansive, and expressive manner. It indicates that the music should be played with a sense of freedom and breadth, rather than in a strict or rigid way.

When a musical score is marked with the term "broadly," the performers are encouraged to take liberties with the tempo and dynamics of the music, creating a more expressive and flexible interpretation. This can involve slowing down or speeding up the tempo, adding rubato (subtle variations in timing), or emphasizing certain notes or phrases to bring out their emotional content.

The concept of "broadly" is often contrasted with "strictly" or "precisely," which indicate that the music should be played in a more rigid and controlled manner, adhering closely to the written notes and timing. "Broadly" allows for more personal interpretation and expression from the performers, encouraging them to bring their own musicality and artistry to the piece.