earlymusic

Early music is a term used to describe music from the medieval and Renaissance periods, and often the early Baroque era, performed in a manner that seeks to reflect historical sources and practices. Scholarly usage typically spans roughly from the 5th century to the mid-18th century, though boundaries vary.

Historically informed performance (HIP) uses period-appropriate instruments or replicas, authentic tunings and temperaments, and practices such as ornamentation, phrasing, and ensemble singing styles that aim to recreate the sound-world of the era. Continuo realization with figured bass, and organ or harpsichord continuo, are also common features of Baroque repertoire.

Repertoire includes sacred and secular vocal music—chant, polyphony, motets, masses, chansons, madrigals—and instrumental music such as dances, concertos, sonatas, and toccatas. Instrumental ensembles often include viols or violins in small consorts, recorders, traverso, lutes, theorbo, crumhorns, and early keyboards.

The modern field grew notably in the mid-20th century with a movement toward authentic performance, recording, and scholarly editing. Major labels, festivals, and academic centers support research and performance worldwide; practitioners range from professional ensembles to conservatory-trained performers.