Tonal harmony refers to the system of organizing music around a central tone or key, creating a structure based on the relationships between chords and melodies. This concept became prominent during the Baroque period, influencing the development of Western music through clear tonal centers and functional harmony that guided compositions. The emphasis on tonal harmony was crucial in distinguishing Baroque music from earlier styles, contributing to the rise of complex polyphony and the eventual shift towards Classical aesthetics.
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