Definition

1. Adverb:
   • In a polyphonic manner: Relating to or characterized by polyphony, which is a style of musical composition that employs two or more simultaneous, independent melodic lines or voices.
   • Composed in a polyphonic style: Describing music that is written with multiple, equally important melodic parts sounding together.

Usage Examples

• Adverb:
  • The Renaissance motet was composed polyphonically, with intricate weaving of four independent vocal lines.
  • To perform this piece correctly, the choir must sing polyphonically, ensuring each melodic strand remains distinct.
  • The composer's later works are written more polyphonically than his earlier homophonic compositions.

Advanced Usage

• Musical Analysis: Used to describe the texture or compositional technique of a piece of music.
  • The fugue develops polyphonically, with the subject introduced in one voice and then imitated in others.
• Comparative Context: Can be used to contrast with other musical textures like "homophonically" or "monophonically."
  • While the verse is sung homophonically, the chorus is arranged polyphonically for a richer effect.

Variants and Related Words

• Polyphonic (adjective): Of, relating to, or characterized by polyphony.
  • Bach's polyphonic compositions are masterpieces of counterpoint.
• Polyphony (noun): The style of simultaneously combining a number of independent melodic parts.
  • The polyphony of a Palestrina mass is complex yet serene.

Synonyms

• Contrapuntally: In a contrapuntal manner; relating to counterpoint (the technique of writing polyphonic music).
• In counterpoint: With independent melodic lines combined harmoniously.

Antonyms

• Homophonically: In a homophonic manner; with a single dominant melody accompanied by chords.
• Monophonically: In a monophonic manner; with a single melodic line without accompaniment.

Adverb

1. in a polyphonic manner
   • polyphonically composed