Question 1: Describe the texture of a piece where a single melody is supported by a continuous accompanying harmony, with no other independent lines present.

Answer: Homophonic texture, characterized by a clear melody with accompanying harmony, often in chords.

Question 2: Identify the texture when several independent melodic lines are played simultaneously, each with its own rhythm and contour.

Answer: Polyphonic texture, where multiple independent melodies occur at the same time.

Question 3: In a piece, a solo singer is accompanied by a simple chordal accompaniment that moves in the same rhythm as the melody. What is the texture, and how does it differ from polyphony?

Answer: Homophonic texture; it differs from polyphony because there is a clear melody with accompaniment, whereas polyphony features multiple independent melodies.

Question 4: Listen carefully and describe the texture of a section where a single melodic line is played unaccompanied, with no other musical parts.

Answer: Monophonic texture, consisting of a single melodic line without accompaniment.

Question 5: Imagine a piece where a bass line, a harmony, and a melody are all played together, each with different rhythms and contours. What type of texture is this?

Answer: Polyphonic texture, as multiple independent parts are combined.

Question 6: Sketch a simple diagram to represent a texture where the melody is supported by an accompaniment, with no other independent lines. Describe what your sketch would look like.

Answer: A primary line labeled 'melody' with a parallel line underneath labeled 'accompaniment,' indicating harmony supporting the melody, with no additional independent lines.

Question 7: Explain how the use of multiple independent melodic lines can affect the overall sound of a piece. Provide an example of a musical style where this is common.

Answer: It creates a complex, interwoven sound that can be lively or intricate. An example is Baroque fugues or jazz improvisations.

Question 8: Identify and describe the texture you would expect in a slow, solo ballad where the singer is accompanied only by a piano playing simple chords.

Answer: Homophonic texture, with a clear melody supported by chordal accompaniment.

Question 9: In your own words, define what is meant by 'texture' in music and why it is important for composers to consider.

Answer: Texture in music refers to how the different musical lines or parts are combined and layered. It affects the overall sound, mood, and complexity of a piece, helping composers create contrast, interest, and emotional impact.