Music History

Hildegard Von Bingen/Leonin

Major composers from the Medival Era

Gregorian Chant

A major form of music in the Medieval Era

Monophonic Texture

A musical texture consisting of a single melodic line without harmony, prominent in Medieval music.

Josquin des Prez

A prominent composer of the Renaissance Era.

Polyphony

A musical texture that involves multiple independent melodies, key characteristic of the Renaissance Era.

Bach

A major composer of the Baroque Era known for works such as the Fugue and Cantata.

Opera

A major form of music in the Baroque Era that combines singing with instrumental performance.

Classical Era

A period from 1750-1800 characterized by clarity, balance, and functional harmony in music.

Expressive Melody

A stylistic characteristic of the Romantic Era focused on emotional and lyrical musical lines.

Stravinsky

A significant composer of the Modern/20th Century known for his works incorporating rhythmic complexity.

Atonality

A musical characteristic of the Modern Era where music lacks a tonal center or key.

Word Painting

A technique used in the Renaissance Era where the music reflects the literal meaning of the lyrics.

Basso Continuo

A continuous bass line characteristic of the Baroque Era.

Functional Harmony

A style of harmony that supports the structure of the musical composition, prominent in the Classical Era.

Minimalism

A music style from the 20th Century characterized by simplicity and repetitive motifs.

Nationalism

A feature of Romantic Era music that incorporates folk elements to express national identity.