What defines polyphony?

• A. A texture with a single melodic line
• B. A texture where one voice dominates with one accompaniment
• C. All voices or parts have several distinct melodic lines occurring at same time
• D. A unison melody performed by multiple instruments

Answer: (C)

Polyphony is a texture built from multiple independent melodic lines sounding at the same time. Each voice has its own tune and rhythm, and these lines weave together to create a rich, interwoven tapestry. This differs from monophony, which has a single melody, and from homophony, where one main melody is supported by accompanying material rather than moving independently. It also isn’t unison, where everyone plays the same line together. In polyphony, you can hear several distinct melodies at once, like a four-part choir where soprano, alto, tenor, and bass each carry a different tune.