What element is often prevalent in Baroque music?

Baroque music is characterized by its elaborate and intricate style, and heavy use of ornamentation is a fundamental aspect of this period. Ornamentation involves the addition of decorative notes and flourishes that embellish the melodic line, enhancing expression and virtuosity. This practice highlights the emotional and dramatic qualities typical of Baroque compositions, reflecting the influences of the time, which valued elaborate artistry and the exploration of emotional depth in music.

The prevalence of ornamentation can be seen in the works of composers like Johann Sebastian Bach and George Frideric Handel, where trills, turns, and other decorative elements bring the music to life and showcase the performers' technical skills. Thus, the emphasis on embellishing melodies through ornamentation is a defining feature of Baroque music, setting it apart from earlier and later musical styles.