The transition between the Medieval era into the Renaissance was marked by significant changes in philosophy, the most notable being the evolution from societal conformity to a focus on individualism and autonomy. This switch is reflected in the characteristics and style of Renaissance music; for instance, the increased use of solos within music. Typically, music was uniform; no performer stood out above the rest. In addition, Renaissance music is characterized by heavy embellishments, a conspicuous contrast to the Medieval era, in which music was created purely for religious purposes and therefore lacked any “unneeded elements.” The Renaissance style of music is reminiscent of society’s growing emphasis on the secular.

Sources:

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Tomlinson, Gary, and James Haar. Renaissance Humanism and Music. European Music, 1520-1640, Boydell & Brewer, Boydell Press, 2006, pp. 1–19.

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