Texture in Music

Just as physical materials have texture, so does music—though, of course, texture in music is characterized by sound, not feel. You might describe the texture of a song or piece in terms of range, dynamics, articulation, or rhythmic complexity. However, the formal terms used to describe texture all refer to the number of voices, or parts, in the music and the relationships between voices. The complexity of these relationships determines whether the musical texture is thick or thin, and generally, how much is “going on.” Here are the three most common types of texture, from simplest to most complex.

Multiple Textures

As you explore these types of texture, keep in mind that a song does not have to be classified under a single category; many pieces involve multiple textures. In a single symphony, you may find examples of all three of these textures at different moments. Many rock and pop songs are “additive,” meaning they start out monophonic and develop into polyphony later on—a perfect example is Whitney Houston’s ballad “I Will Always Love You.”

Monophonic

Literally meaning one voice, monophonic texture (monophony) refers to a single melodic line, though it may be played by one or many instruments. The voices may be in exact unison or in different octaves, as long as the same notes and rhythms are played. Nonpitched rhythmic accompaniment may be present as well. A few examples of monophony include group singing of simple tunes such as “Happy Birthday” or “The Star Spangled Banner,” a solo trumpet playing “Taps,” or someone whistling a song.Texture-1

 

Homophonic

Homophonic texture (homophony) is the most common texture in Western music, both classical and popular. It is defined as having one voice, a melody, which stands out from background accompaniment. The accompaniment may be simple chords or a harmony with melodic interest, but in either case, the main melody must be clearly distinguishable. Homophony can be anything from a singer accompanied by guitar chords, to compositions by classical composers.Texture-2

 

Polyphonic

Polyphonic texture (polyphony or counterpoint) involves multiple melodic voices, all of equal importance, occurring simultaneously. This complex, dense texture is typical of Renaissance and baroque music. Keep in mind, though, that multiple voices does not necessarily mean multiple instruments; polyphonic music can be played on a single keyboard instrument or guitar. Many examples of polyphony can be found in the music of Bach. All rounds, canons, and fugues (where melodies enter at different times) are considered polyphonic.Texture-3

 

 

 

 

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13 comments

texture is like felling the alto soprano teno and base because your hearing them so it would like you are actually feeling the differents types of notes when they come together to harmonize

Can someone please explain what heterophonic means? Also, if you have two people singing and its poyphonic and then you have an accompaniment, what is that called? I know that if there is a melody and accompanimentthere is a word for that, but I just can’t remember right now!

Hi Zoe. Great questions. Heterophonic refers to a piece of music where two or more versions of the same melody are occurring simultaneously. Often, the melodies have a slightly different rhythm or one may have some notes added in to add color. For example, one melody may just be singing quarter notes while a second version of the melody hits those same notes but may also be adding in some eighth or sixteenth notes in between of a different pitch. It often occurs in Non-Western music and folk music.

To answer your second question, are you possibly thinking of the term counterpoint?

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