What does a fermata indicate to a musician?

A fermata is a symbol placed over a note or a rest, instructing the musician to extend the duration of that note or rest beyond its standard length. This means that when a musician sees a fermata, they should hold the note for as long as they feel it is effective, often until the conductor signals them to continue or until it feels appropriate to move on. This can add an expressive element to the music, allowing for emotional pauses or emphatic statements.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe the function of a fermata. While playing at a slower tempo, repeating a measure, or increasing volume with a crescendo are all valid musical expressions, they do not relate to the specific directive given by a fermata. Understanding how to interpret a fermata correctly is essential for conveying the intended musical expression effectively.