Early Music refers to the music created in Europe from the medieval period through the Renaissance, roughly spanning from the 9th to the 17th centuries. This genre includes a variety of styles and forms, such as Gregorian chant, polyphony, and madrigals. Instruments like the lute, viol, and recorder were commonly used, and the music often emphasized vocal harmonies and religious themes. The study of Early Music involves both performance and scholarship, with musicians often using historical instruments and techniques to recreate the sound of the time. Festivals and ensembles dedicated to this genre, such as the Boston Early Music Festival, help to promote awareness and appreciation of this rich musical heritage.