Melodies continuous, ornamented and often used sequentially.

Rhythms more definite and regular than previously.

Texture both polyphonic and homophonic. The continuo (or figured bass line) played by the low instruments, plus chordal instrument (harpsichord, organ, lute) is peculiar to this period.

Harmonies depended on the continuo performers’ skills at each performance. Major and minor replaced the old church modes.

Dynamics - contrasts were achieved by two fixed levels, loud or soft, with no gradation of sound between these levels. Constrast was also achieved by varying the instrumentation.

Timbre - mostly strings, winds, harpsichord, organ, voice; some brass and drums.