What is the primary function of a motet in the medieval period?

The primary function of a motet in the medieval period was to serve as a religious composition. Motets were often vocal pieces that set sacred texts to music, providing a means for enhancing the liturgical practices of the church. These compositions were typically polyphonic, meaning they featured multiple interweaving melodic lines, which added to their complexity and emotional expression.

Motets were often performed during church services, demonstrating the connection between music and spirituality during this time. The texts used in motets were usually drawn from either the Bible or liturgical sources, aiming to inspire contemplation and devotion among listeners. This focus on the sacred and the reverent made the motet a vital form of musical expression within the religious context of the medieval period.

In contrast, the roles suggested by the other options do not align with the primary purpose of motets. Dance music, entertainment at royal courts, and instruction for musicians do not capture the essence of the motet's function within the sacred traditions of the time.