Harmony

Definition

Harmony refers to the combination of different musical notes played or sung simultaneously to create a pleasing sound. In the context of early medieval music, harmony plays a crucial role in the development of organum, as it provides the foundational structure over which melodies are layered, enhancing the overall texture and emotional depth of the music.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In early medieval music, harmony was primarily achieved through intervals, with parallel organum being the most basic form, where melodies move in the same direction at a consistent interval.
2. Free organum allowed for more independence between the voices, leading to greater complexity and variation in harmonic relationships.
3. Melismatic organum introduced elaborate melodic embellishments in one voice while maintaining a simpler harmonic line in another, showcasing the beauty of both melody and harmony.
4. The shift from monophonic to polyphonic music marked a significant evolution in harmony, as composers began to explore richer textures and more intricate harmonic structures.
5. The development of notation during this period allowed for more precise recording of harmonic progressions, influencing how musicians approached harmony in composition.

Review Questions

• How does harmony enhance the texture of medieval music, particularly in relation to different types of organum?
  • Harmony enhances the texture of medieval music by adding depth and richness to the sound. In parallel organum, the melody is supported by a second voice at a fixed interval, creating a straightforward harmonic backdrop. Free organum allows for more freedom in harmonic choices, leading to varied and interesting interactions between voices. Melismatic organum showcases complex melodies intertwined with simpler harmonies, demonstrating how harmony can elevate musical expression.
• Evaluate the differences between parallel, free, and melismatic organum in terms of their harmonic structures and implications for musical composition.
  • Parallel organum relies on fixed intervals to create harmony, resulting in a straightforward sound where voices move together. Free organum introduces greater independence among the voices, allowing for more complex harmonic interactions that enhance emotional expression. Melismatic organum adds intricate embellishments to one voice while maintaining a simpler harmonic line, showcasing the contrast between elaborate melody and structured harmony. Each type reflects distinct approaches to harmonizing melodies and influences composers' creative decisions.
• Synthesize how the evolution of harmony through different types of organum reflects broader trends in medieval music and cultural practices.
  • The evolution of harmony through various forms of organum illustrates significant shifts in medieval music and its cultural context. As composers transitioned from monophonic traditions to complex polyphony, they embraced innovative harmonic structures that reflected a growing interest in individual expression and artistic exploration. The development of notation facilitated this evolution by allowing musicians to experiment with harmonies more freely. This shift not only changed musical practices but also mirrored broader cultural movements towards complexity and richness in artistic endeavors during the medieval period.

Related terms

Melody: A sequence of notes that is musically satisfying; it serves as the main theme or tune of a piece.

Monophony:

A musical texture consisting of a single melodic line without any harmony or accompaniment.

Counterpoint:

The art of combining different melodic lines in a musical composition, creating harmony through their interaction.