The Development of Music Theory: A Comparison between the Medieval and Renaissance Periods

Music has always been evolving. Usually the changes are slow and gradual, but in certain points throughout history, great strides and innovations are made, causing an unmistakable shift in the way people play, write, and think about music. One of the most important shifts occurred between the Medieval and Renaissance time periods. The Medieval period is usually considered to be between 476 and 1450, and the Renaissance period is considered to be from 1450 to 1600. 1450 marked the turning point. This point showed great advancements in the way of music theory, specifically, through the…