What was music like in the 16th century?

Music in the 16th century was characterized by the rise of polyphony, where multiple independent melodies were sung or played simultaneously. The period saw the flourishing of choral music, particularly in the Renaissance, with composers like Josquin des Prez and Palestrina leading the way. Instruments such as the lute, viol, and organ became increasingly popular, and the invention of music printing facilitated the widespread distribution of sheet music. Overall, this era laid the groundwork for the evolution of Western music, emphasizing harmony and expressive vocal techniques.