The term espressivo comes from the Italian word "espressione," which means "expression." When a musician plays a piece of music espressivo, they are trying to convey the emotions and feelings that are expressed in the music. This can be done through the use of dynamics, tempo, and articulation.
For example, a pianist might play a piece of music espressivo by using a variety of dynamics, from soft to loud, to express the different emotions that are conveyed in the music. They might also use a slow tempo to create a sense of melancholy, or a fast tempo to create a sense of excitement. The pianist might also use different articulations, such as legato and staccato, to emphasize the different notes and phrases in the music.
When a musician plays a piece of music espressivo, they are trying to create a connection with the listener. They want to convey the emotions and feelings that are expressed in the music, and they want the listener to experience those emotions and feelings along with them.