Medieval

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The Medieval musical period, spanning from approximately the 5th to the 15th century, is characterized by the dominance of monophony, where music consisted of a single melodic line. Gregorian chant, a type of monophonic music, was central to this era, particularly in liturgical contexts. Developed during the Carolingian dynasty, Gregorian chant spread throughout Western Europe, influencing the development of Western music notation and structure[1][2]. The period also saw the emergence of troubadours and trouvères, who popularized secular music, often accompanied by instruments like lutes and harps[1][3]. As the Medieval period progressed, musical forms evolved to include heterophony and polyphony. Organum, a form of heterophony, added a second vocal line to monophonic chants, while the motet introduced multiple vocal parts, marking the beginning of true polyphony[1][3]. The late Medieval period saw the rise of Ars Nova, which further developed polyphonic music and laid the groundwork for Renaissance music[1]. Despite the prevalence of vocal music, instrumental music played a role, particularly in secular contexts, with instruments like flutes and sackbuts[3]. Overall, the Medieval period was pivotal in shaping the course of Western music.