* Characterized by intricate melodies, elaborate ornamentation, and a focus on instrumental music
* Major composers include Johann Sebastian Bach, George Frideric Handel, and Antonio Vivaldi
* Classical music (1750-1820)
* Characterized by greater simplicity and structure than Baroque music, with an emphasis on melody and harmony
* Major composers include Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Joseph Haydn, and Ludwig van Beethoven
* Romantic music (1820-1910)
* Characterized by an emphasis on emotion and expression, often with lush orchestration and complex harmonies
* Major composers include Johannes Brahms, Franz Schubert, and Richard Wagner
* Modern music (1910-present)
* A diverse range of styles that break away from traditional forms and structures
* Notable movements include impressionism, expressionism, and minimalism
* Major composers include Claude Debussy, Igor Stravinsky, and John Cage