Music in the Baroque Era: Structural Development and Performance Practices

Abstract

The Baroque period is considered a pivotal era in the history of classical music, marked by the acceleration of musical development, the emergence of new forms and structures, and the laying of foundations for subsequent periods. Spanning from the mid-17th to the mid-18th century, this period exerted a profound influence on European music, and its rich repertoire remains extensively performed today as an integral part of classical music education and performance. The Baroque era represents a period of innovation, experimentation, and artistic advancement in Western classical music. This study aims to provide a comprehensive exploration by investigating the historical foundations, defining characteristics, key composers, and lasting impact on the subsequent development of Western music. Through an examination of the period's musical developments, innovations, and expressive instrumental and vocal forms, this article seeks to illuminate the multifaceted nature of Baroque music and its enduring legacy in the classical music canon. This article is a qualitative study intended to contribute to the relevant literature.