What primary characteristic distinguishes choral music in the Renaissance from previous styles?

The primary characteristic that distinguishes choral music in the Renaissance from earlier styles is the incorporation of increased harmony and polyphony. During the Renaissance period, composers began to explore more complex textures and multiple independent melodic lines, which contributed to a richer harmonic language. This marked a significant evolution from earlier musical practices that were often more homophonic or limited to simpler melodic structures.

Renaissance choral music is notable for its lush harmonies, the use of imitation among voices, and the blending of lines that enhance the overall sound. Composers like Josquin des Prez and Palestrina exemplified this approach, creating works that featured intricate interweaving of parts, ultimately leading to a more expressive and sonorous choral music.

The shift towards polyphony represented a pivotal change in the way music was composed and understood, allowing for greater emotional depth and a more refined aesthetic, which was particularly emblematic of the humanist ideals of the time, celebrating both individuality and collective beauty in sound.