Western classical music refers to the art music traditions that have developed in Western Europe and its colonies. It encompasses a vast range of styles, periods, and forms, spanning from the medieval era through the Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and Modern periods. Western classical music has had a significant influence on music around the world and remains a vital tradition today.

The origins of Western classical music can be traced back to the medieval period, where Gregorian chant and early polyphony (music with multiple independent voices) were prominent. During the Renaissance (15th-16th centuries), composers such as Josquin des Prez and Giovanni Palestrina flourished, creating complex choral music and developing the techniques of counterpoint and harmony.