What is a key characteristic of Baroque music?

A key characteristic of Baroque music is its homophonic texture, where there is an emphasis on a single melodic line accompanied by chords. This period, which spanned from approximately 1600 to 1750, is distinguished by its complex forms and ornate musical style. In Baroque compositions, the melody often stands out clearly while the harmony provides support, creating a rich and expressive sound. This contrasts with earlier musical styles, which often featured more polyphonic textures with multiple independent melodic lines.

The other choices do not adequately capture the essence of Baroque music. For example, while improvisation did play a role during the Baroque period, such as in the practice of ornamentation, it is not the defining characteristic one would emphasize for this style. Additionally, Baroque music does not strictly adhere to traditional folk tunes; instead, it explores a wide range of themes and compositions. Moreover, dynamics in Baroque music were quite dynamic compared to earlier periods, often using contrasts in volume (known as terraced dynamics) rather than minimal use, which enhances the emotional expression of the music.