What genre does medieval music often contrast with?

Medieval music often contrasts with secular music due to the significant division between sacred and secular forms during that time period. The medieval era, roughly spanning from the 5th to the late 15th century, saw a flourishing of church music, particularly as part of the liturgy and religious ceremonies. This sacred music was typically composed for worship and spiritual expression, encompassing Gregorian chant and early polyphony.

In contrast, secular music was developed primarily for entertainment or social occasions and was not intended for religious contexts. The distinctions between sacred and secular music during the medieval period highlight the cultural and social values of the time, emphasizing the church's importance, while also allowing for the growth of forms of expression outside of religious confines. This contrast illustrates the broad spectrum of music that emerged in the medieval era, from solemn hymns to lively dance tunes, each serving different purposes and audiences.

Other genres mentioned in the choices, such as classical, jazz, and modern pop music, emerged long after the medieval period and do not represent the direct contrast that existed between the sacred and secular forms of music during that era. Thus, secular music serves as the most relevant contrasting genre to medieval music.