Asynchronous Activity: The History of Western Music
General Instructions:
Read about the main periods in the history of Western music: Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque period.
Reflect on what you have learned about these eras, especially one that interests you the most.
Write a short essay answering the questions below, using complete sentences and thoughtful reflection. Your essay should be about 200-300 words in total.
Write your activity in the discussion thread.
Your submission will be processed using an AI plagiarism detection tool provided by the university. Ensure your work is properly paraphrased, and all sources are correctly cited to avoid academic integrity issues. An output that is proved plagiarized will automatically get a “0” from your written work 1.
The deadline of submission is at 4:00 pm today.
Guide essay questions :
Which period of Western music history interests you the most and why?
You may mention a composer, a style, or a musical instrument that stands out to you.
How do you think changes in society and culture influenced the development of music across these periods? Think about things like technology, philosophy, or social life.
Background Summary (for reference):
Western Music history includes several important eras:
Medieval (700-1400): Early chant and simple melodies.
Renaissance (1400-1600): More complex polyphony and secular music grows.
Baroque (1685-1750): Ornate, decorated music with composers like Bach and Handel.
Answer (1)
Answer:The History of Western Music: A Personal ReflectionAmong the different periods of Western music history, the Baroque period interests me the most. The richness and emotional depth of Baroque music, along with its dramatic style, sets it apart from the earlier eras. I am particularly fascinated by the works of Johann Sebastian Bach, whose compositions like the Brandenburg Concertos show both technical brilliance and deep feeling. The use of instruments such as the harpsichord and the development of the orchestra during this period also reflect how much music evolved during that time.The development of music across the Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque periods was clearly shaped by changes in society and culture. During the Medieval era, much of the music was religious because the Church had strong influence. As society became more focused on human experience during the Renaissance, music became more expressive and included secular themes. By the Baroque period, technology like improved instrument design, along with rising interest in individual expression and drama, allowed composers to create more elaborate musical forms. The popularity of opera, for example, showed how music became more connected to storytelling and emotion.Overall, learning about the history of Western music helped me appreciate how art and society influence one another. The Baroque period stands out to me because of its emotional intensity and lasting influence on classical music as we know it today.
