What does the term "marcato" indicate in musical notation?

The term "marcato" in musical notation specifically indicates that the notes should be played in a marked or stressed manner. This means that each note should be given a strong emphasis, standing out more prominently than others. The intention is to create an assertive character, which can add vitality and energy to the music.

When looking at the other possible choices, "to play softly" does not align with the meaning of marcato, as the term suggests a more forceful and emphasized execution rather than a gentle one. Similarly, "to play with great speed" is not applicable, as marcato does not imply tempo but rather issues a directive on the delivery and articulation of the notes. Lastly, "to play in a smooth manner" describes a legato style, which is the opposite of the marked and stressed quality that marcato conveys. Thus, the correct understanding of marcato fosters clarity and precision in performance, ensuring that the noted emphasis is successfully communicated.