What does an accent typically indicate in a piece of music?

An accent in music serves to highlight or emphasize a specific note, setting it apart from the others in a phrase or passage. When a note is accented, it is played with greater intensity, volume, or a slight increase in duration. This creates a contrast that draws the listener's attention, contributing to the overall expressiveness of the music.

The role of an accent is fundamental in shaping musical phrases and articulating different emotions and dynamics. When musicians encounter accented notes, they understand that these notes should stand out in the context of the surrounding music, enhancing the listener's experience and guiding the flow of the composition.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent the function of an accent. Slowing down the tempo relates to performance instructions, while creating harmony and changing the time signature involve broader structural aspects of music rather than the emphasis of a single note.