Legato is a musical term that indicates a smooth and connected style of playing or singing. In legato, notes are played or sung in a way that minimizes any gaps or breaks between them, creating a flowing sound. This technique is often used in various genres of music to enhance expressiveness and emotional impact. In written music, legato is typically notated with a curved line, called a slur, above or below the notes that should be played smoothly. Musicians, including composers like Ludwig van Beethoven and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, often employ legato to convey a sense of continuity and grace in their compositions.