Baroque composers were musicians who created music during the Baroque period, which lasted from approximately 1600 to 1750. This era is known for its expressive melodies, complex harmonies, and the use of ornamentation. Notable composers from this time include Johann Sebastian Bach, George Frideric Handel, and Antonio Vivaldi, who contributed significantly to the development of various musical forms, including opera, concerto, and sonata. The Baroque period also saw the rise of instrumental music, with the establishment of the orchestra as a prominent ensemble. Composers often used contrasting dynamics and textures to enhance emotional expression in their works. The influence of Baroque music can still be heard in contemporary compositions and performances today.