The 17th century emerged amidst the tremendous upheaval of global conflict and spectacular discoveries. The earthly voyages of Henry Hudson and heavenly observations of Galileo Galilei mirrored an aesthetic revolution. Contemporary titles such as New Music, Modern Style and Second Practice show just how aware composers were of the groundbreaking nature of their work. In contrast to the well-proportioned, crafted polyphony of the Renaissance, flamboyant gestures and sharp contrasts became hallmarks of the new style, depicting vivid portraits and sensational narratives.