Polyphony

Syllable breakdown

Dictionary meaning

A musical texture consisting of two or more simultaneous, relatively independent melodic lines, each of comparable importance; the opposite of monophony (a single melody) and distinct from homophony (melody with subordinate chordal accompaniment).

Examples

• Medieval sacred music evolved from plainsong toward the rich polyphony of Renaissance motets.
• Polyphony in Georgian folk singing uses complex, interweaving vocal lines.

Synonyms: polyphonic texture, counterpoint