Impressionist music emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, primarily in France. It is characterized by its focus on atmosphere and mood rather than traditional structure and form. Composers like Claude Debussy and Maurice Ravel used innovative harmonies, unusual scales, and fluid rhythms to create a sense of color and texture in their music. This style often evokes imagery and emotions, similar to Impressionist painting. Instead of clear melodies, impressionist music features ambiguous harmonies and subtle shifts in dynamics, allowing listeners to experience a more immersive and sensory musical journey.