Final answer:
The horizontal succession of notes is the sequential arrangement of musical notes on a staff, which forms a melody by indicating pitch and rhythm. This system of music notation is vital in Western music history, encompassing various styles like classical and jazz.
Step-by-step explanation:
The horizontal succession of notes written or performed in a recognizable shape refers to the way music is notated and read, following a sequence from left to right. In Western music, musical notes have specific names like A-sharp, C, or E-flat, and are placed on a staff to indicate their pitch. The arrangement of these notes forms the melody and is identified by the specific sequence and rhythm, creating the music's horizontal aspect.
Theory and notation in music are complex systems developed over centuries. From the Medieval period, the theoretical advances in rhythm and polyphony have significantly contributed to the development of Western music. Knowledge of these systems is vital for understanding and performing music according to the tradition of the various musical periods, such as classical, jazz, or country.