From folklore to pop music: How music has evolved through the centuries

Introduction
Music is one of the oldest and most important aspects of human culture. From the ritual chants of ancient civilizations to modern pop music, it reflects the zeitgeist, emotional experiences, and social change. How did music go this way, what events and personalities became key to its development?
Early forms of music: from rituals to folk art
1. Ancient music
The first musical instruments were drums, bone flutes and primitive string instruments. Music was used in religious rites and rituals.
2. Medieval music
The emergence of musical notation in Europe allowed music to develop and be passed down to generations. Gregorian chorale, knightly ballads and the first polyphonic compositions became the basis of the Western musical tradition.

The Birth of Classics: The Age of Great Composers
3. Baroque and Classicism
XVII-XVIII centuries became the flowering of classical music. Bach, Mozart, Beethoven – their work laid the foundation for the academic musical tradition.
4. Romanticism and the Beginning of Mass Music
The nineteenth century brought more emotion and freedom to music. Chopin, List, Wagner changed the idea of classical art.
XX century: the emergence of new genres and technologies
5. Jazz and blues
African American musical traditions gave birth to jazz and blues, genres that later influenced the entire musical world.
6. Rock and Roll and the Pop Era
The 1950s and 70s were a time of revolution in music. Elvis Presley, The Beatles, Pink Floyd, Michael Jackson became iconic figures.

Contemporary Music: The Digital Age and Globalization
7. Electronic music and hip-hop
With the advent of computers, music became digital. Electronic beatmakers and rap artists have taken over the world.
8. Music of the XXI century
Streaming services have changed the industry and new genres such as K-pop have become global phenomena.
Conclusion
Music continues to evolve, reflecting social processes and technological progress. What happens next? Time will tell.
Glossary

• Gregorian Choral Monodic vocal music of the Catholic Church.
• Romanticism A style in music based on emotion and individualism.
• hip-hop A genre that combines rhythmic speech, DJ-scretching and street culture.