What does "affretando" suggest about the emotion of the piece?

Affrettando is an Italian musical term that translates to "hurrying" or "growing faster." When this term is used in a piece of music, it typically suggests a sense of urgency or agitation within the expression of the piece. This instruction indicates that the performer should increase the tempo, which can imbue the music with a feeling of excitement or tension, elevating the emotional intensity.

The other choices do not align with the connotation of affrettando. For instance, a sense of calm and relaxation would be better represented by terms associated with a slower tempo and more fluid phrasing. Similarly, a reflective or somber tone would typically manifest through slower, more contemplative dynamics rather than a hurried pace. Lastly, a joyful and celebratory character is usually depicted through lively rhythms or an upbeat tempo, but not specifically through the urgency implied by affrettando. Thus, the indication of urgency or agitation aligns perfectly with the essence of the term.