Harmony

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Harmony is the use of multiple pitches simultaneously (often creating chords). It is one of the key features of Western music; music from the Orient and other places are often based on other elements such as rhythm or timbre.

Harmony in Classical Music

Renaissance

Renaissance harmony is based around the classic principles of counterpoint; therefore, there is often little if no dissonance.

Baroque

Baroque music developed from the harmonic principles of renaissance music, but added it's own features. Dissonance (particularly when prepared) is common, often used in word-painting (e.g.

Classical

Classical harmony is largely similar to baroque harmony. There are however a few differences: augmented 6th chords are introduced in this period.

Harmony in Jazz

Harmony in jazz developed the fusion of primarily classical harmony with the influences of extended chords found in romanticism and impressionism.