The Baroque era was the first period in which instrumental music was finally of equal importance with vocal music?

The Baroque era, spanning from approximately 1600 to 1750, marked a significant shift in music history, where instrumental music gained prominence alongside vocal compositions. Composers like Johann Sebastian Bach and Antonio Vivaldi expanded the capabilities of instruments and explored new forms, such as the concerto and sonata, allowing instrumental music to express complex emotions and ideas. This period also saw the rise of orchestras and the establishment of distinct instrumental genres, reflecting a growing appreciation for the musicality of instruments themselves. Consequently, instrumental music became a vital and respected art form, equal in status to vocal music.