Popular entertainment (sound and music)

Medieval (c500-1500)

  • In this period, music was largely influenced by the church and monastic tradition, particularly Gregorian chants.
  • The concept of musical notation started to develop, allowing for the preservation and replication of music.
  • Instruments like the lute and psaltery were popular.

Early Modern (1500-1750)

  • The Renaissance period saw significant developments in polyphonic music.
  • Printing press increased availability of music sheets, contributing to a since-unseen spread of music culture.
  • Composers like Johann Sebastian Bach and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart dominated the classical music scene.

Industrial Revolution (1750-1900)

  • Increasing urbanisation brought about the rise of public concerts and opera houses.
  • Technological advancements led to the development of more modern musical instruments.
  • Popular music genres included classical, folk, and march music.

20th Century

  • The invention of radio allowed for wide broadcast of music, dramatically increasing its reach.
  • Jazz, blues and rock n roll emerged as popular genres, influencing the music industry worldwide.
  • The vinyl record, and later the cassette tape and compact disc (CD) changed the way music was stored and distributed.

Present Day

  • Digital technology revolutionised music production and distribution, making it accessible to the masses.
  • The creation of global online platforms like Spotify and Apple Music have changed the way music is consumed.
  • Genres are more diverse than ever before, with indie, pop, hip hop, and EDM being particularly popular.