The Western music tradition encompasses a wide range of musical styles and practices that have developed in Europe and the Americas over centuries. It includes genres such as classical, jazz, rock, and pop, each with its own unique characteristics and historical significance. The tradition is often marked by the use of written notation, allowing for the preservation and dissemination of music. Key elements of Western music include harmony, melody, and rhythm, which are foundational to its structure. Influential figures like Johann Sebastian Bach and Ludwig van Beethoven have shaped its evolution, while modern genres continue to draw from these roots, reflecting cultural changes and technological advancements.