Characteristics:
- Emphasis on melody
- Use of counterpoint (two or more melodies played at the same time)
- Use of basso continuo (a bass line that provides harmonic support)
- Development of the opera, cantata, and oratorio
- Elaborate ornamentation
- Use of terraced dynamics (sudden changes in volume)
Rococo (1720-1780)
Characteristics:
- Similar to the Baroque period, but with a lighter texture
- More emphasis on melody and less on counterpoint
- Use of more dynamic contrasts
- Development of the sonata and symphony
- Use of galant style (a light, graceful style)
Classical (1750-1830)
Characteristics:
- Clear, simple melodies
- Use of sonata-allegro form (a three-part form consisting of an exposition, development, and recapitulation)
- Use of homophony (a texture in which one melody is accompanied by chords)
- Development of the piano and the orchestra
- Rise of the opera buffa (a comic opera)
Romantic (1830-1910)
Characteristics:
- Emphasis on emotional expression
- Use of chromaticism (the use of notes that are not in the key)
- Use of large orchestral forces
- Development of the symphonic poem and the opera seria (a serious opera)
- Rise of nationalism in music (the use of folk music and folk melodies)
Modern (1910-present)
Characteristics:
- Wide variety of styles and genres
- Use of dissonance and atonality (the absence of a tonal center)
- Use of new instruments and electronic sounds
- Development of jazz, rock, and pop music
- Rise of the avant-garde (experimental music)