Prior to the Baroque era, the realm of keyboard music was predominantly occupied by compositions for the organ, serving their liturgical purpose within the confines of religious contexts. In the latter stages of the Renaissance period, the virginal, an antecedent to the harpsichord, gained prominence in England. However, it was during the Baroque period that the keyboard truly burgeoned into a distinct solo instrument, unfurling its artistic potential. As it matured, it embra