Musical Texture

A set of question-and-answer flashcards reviewing key definitions and examples of musical texture, including monophonic, homophonic, and polyphonic varieties.

What does “texture” mean in music?

The overall ‘feel’ created by the number of parts and how those parts relate in terms of closeness, speed, and interaction.

Which texture features a single melodic line without accompaniment?

Monophonic texture.

In monophonic texture, what is the distinction between a solo and unison?

A solo has one performer on the line, while unison has several performers playing or singing the same line (often in octaves).

Which texture is described as ‘same sound,’ dominated by one main melody?

Homophonic texture.

Name three common forms of homophonic texture.

Parallel movement in 3rds or 6ths, chordal (homorhythmic) writing, and melody with accompaniment.

What texture is defined by ‘many sounds’ with competing or interweaving melodies?

Polyphonic texture.

What is meant by imitation in polyphonic texture?

The repetition of a melodic idea in different voices, as in a canon or fugue.

Give an example of non-imitative counterpoint in polyphonic texture.

A melody paired with an independent countermelody.

What term describes multiple performers playing the same melody in octaves?

Monophonic texture in unison (octaves).

What does ‘homorhythmic’ indicate within homophonic texture?

All parts move with the same rhythm, producing chordal writing.

If two equally important melodies occur simultaneously, which texture is present?

Polyphonic texture.