Segue
"It follows" – an instruction to continue directly into the next section without a break.
What it means
Segue is an Italian instruction meaning literally 'it follows.' It calls for continuing immediately into the next section without a break, pause, or caesura.
Segue often appears together with the name of the following movement or tempo, for instance 'segue Andante,' to make clear which section follows directly.
Musical use
Segue is notated mainly at the end of a movement or section when composers want to prevent performers from allowing an audible pause, or even applause, between two parts, for instance when a slow movement should lead attacca into a fast one.
In film music and musical theater, segue is also used more generally for the immediate, often crossfading transition between two musical sections, without a clearly perceptible break in between.
Segue should be distinguished from attacca, which likewise calls for a seamless transition but usually refers specifically to a new movement following directly on the previous one, whereas segue more generally means 'it follows (without interruption)' and can also occur within a movement.
Performance practice
When you see a segue instruction, prepare to begin the next section with no delay at all, even if an instrument change or retuning is required. Agree in advance within the ensemble on exactly who gives the entrance for the following section.