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The Medieval period spans a long musical history, beginning around 400 AD with the fall of the Roman Empire and progressing through to the early Renaissance around the 15th century. In contrast, the Renaissance period runs approximately from 1450 to 1600. This chronological progression marks a significant transition in musical style, form, and complexity.
Despite often grim portrayals, the Medieval era was loaded with cultural exchanges among various European regions and beyond. Traveling musicians and poets, known as Troubadours, played a vital role in introducing foreign musical influences, drawing inspiration from regions as far as Turkey, Africa, and India during the high Medieval period (1100-1350).