Which type of music does Gregorian chant belong to?

Gregorian chant is classified as sacred music from the Medieval era, primarily because it was composed for the Roman Catholic liturgy and intended to enhance worship. This style of music is characterized by its monophonic texture, meaning it consists of a single melodic line without harmonic support. This chant tradition was established during the early Middle Ages, around the 9th and 10th centuries, and is closely associated with the Gregorian Reform, which sought to standardize liturgical practices in the church.

The choice of sacred music underlines its primary purpose: to serve in spiritual contexts and facilitate the ritual of worship, distinguishing it clearly from secular music, which is intended for entertainment or non-religious themes. The other genres mentioned, such as Baroque and Renaissance music, developed later and are characterized by more complex structures, harmonies, and varied thematic content, moving away from the purer, more straightforward lines found in Gregorian chant. Thus, recognizing Gregorian chant as a product of the Medieval period focused on sacred themes highlights its importance in the history of Western music.