What is typically characterized by a strong, regular beat and is fundamental in music composition?

Rhythm is indeed characterized by a strong, regular beat and plays a fundamental role in music composition. It refers to the arrangement of sounds and silences in time, allowing for the organization of music into patterns that can be felt, often aligning with a predictable pulse or beat. This structure creates a framework that allows melodies and harmonies to develop, making rhythm essential for establishing the overall feel and movement of a piece. In most musical contexts, rhythm is what gives music its forward momentum and emotional impact, driven by regular intervals of sound that can be felt physically by listeners.

While tempo indicates the speed of the beat and harmony pertains to the combination of different pitches, they are more complementary aspects of music rather than the foundational element indicated in the question. Melody, on the other hand, represents a series of musical pitches in a sequence, which relies on rhythm for its execution but does not define the basic beat itself. Thus, rhythm's integral connection to the beat and its foundational role in musical structure solidify its importance in composition.