Introduction The terms polyphony and homophony refer to compositional techniques which differ in the relation between horizontal and vertical musical phenomena, i.e. between melody and harmony. With these terms, you can describe many, although not all musical forms in music history. Polyphony and homophony Polyphony In a polyphonic style, the composer pays attention to the melodic value of each part (a 'horizontal' approach). The result is an interplay of several, more or less independent, at least two melodies simultaneously. Popular polyphonic genres are canon and fugue. Polyphonic features are independent rhythmical organization melodic independence, e.g. by contrary motion and by imitation techniques The effect is that in vocal polyphony text can not be understood very well. Study example 1. Homophony In a homophonic style, one melody plays the most important role (a top-melody)). The other parts (at least two) are subordinate and more or less accompaniment (a 'vertical', 'chordal' approach). We can discern two types: Type 1: chorale style All parts have more or less the same rhythm, called as homorhythm. The effect is that in vocal homophony text can be understood well. Examples: the chorale settings in Bach's cantatas. Study example 2. Type 2: song like style The design is quite easy: a top melody, performed by a soloist (or in case of a duet by two soloists etc.), and a chordal accompaniment. Examples: songs of Zelter and Schubert. Study example 3. Remarks Music is often result of the application of polyphonic and homophonic techniques. Homophony, type 1 (chorale style) can historically seen as a derivation of the organum in parallel motion, gymel and faux bourdon. Homophony, type 2 (song like style) can historically seen as a derivation of the monody.