Which characteristic defines the texture of Baroque music?

The characteristic that defines the texture of Baroque music is polyphonic texture. In the Baroque period, which spans roughly from 1600 to 1750, composers often employed intricate counterpoint, where multiple independent melodies interact simultaneously. This polyphony creates a rich tapestry of sound and is exemplified in works by composers such as Johann Sebastian Bach and George Frideric Handel.

In polyphonic texture, various voices or instrumental lines weave together, each contributing to the overall musical statement. This complexity is one of the hallmarks of Baroque music, distinguishing it from other textures. For instance, while homophonic texture features a clear melody supported by chords and monophonic texture includes a single melodic line without accompaniment, Baroque music thrives on the interplay of multiple melodies, adding depth and a sense of dynamism.

Overall, the use of polyphonic texture is what makes Baroque music particularly distinctive and engaging, showcasing compositional skill and the evolution of musical forms during this era.