What does moderato cantabile mean?

"Moderato cantabile" is a musical term that indicates a tempo and style for performance. "Moderato" suggests a moderate speed, while "cantabile" means "in a singing style." Together, they instruct musicians to play the piece at a moderate pace with a lyrical, expressive quality, emphasizing melodic lines as if they were being sung. This combination often aims to create a beautiful and flowing musical atmosphere.