Form comes from text in vocal music. The structure of instrumental music is based on repeating sections. Polyphonic Style Voices and instruments were often mixed. Nonimitative counterpoint, with voices moving at different rhythmic speeds, is the primary texture. Rhythms are often restless and active.
Melodies are long and asymmetrical.
Harmony is based on open fifths and octaves. Dissonances are often sharp and unexpected. Pieces are often built on a cantus firmus, and the structure is formed from repetitions of that melody.