heterophonic

1 9.9

Music where several people play or sing slightly different versions of the same tune together

adjective
/ˌhɛtəˈrɒfənɪk/

Specialized

: heterofónico

In a heterophonic arrangement, each musician adds their unique embellishments to the same melody.

Examples

The choir's performance showcased their talent for heterophonic singing, with each member harmonizing differently.
Polyphonic improvisation should thus be viewed as a fundamental element of early childhood music experiences, whether it be the antiphonal or canonic singing of chants or the heterophonic playing of instruments.

Academic text (2014)
During the rehearsal, the band experimented with heterophonic textures, allowing them to explore variations of the main tune.

How Polyphonic

polyphonic

Specialized

1 7.2

heterophonic

Specialized

1 9.9

homophonic

Specialized

1 8.4

monophonic

Specialized

1 8.1

Surface Forms

heterophonic positive

Morphology

heterophonic = heterophone (semi-transparent) = hetero + phon + ic

The term 'heterophonic' is derived from 'hetero' (different) and 'phon' (sound), but its specific musical meaning requires specialized knowledge.

Etymology

Heterophonic comes from Greek parts hetero- meaning 'different' and -phonic meaning 'sound', like the 'phone' in telephone. So, heterophonic music is when several players sing or play 'different' versions of the same tune at the same time, making a rich, layered sound.