What does the term "polyphonic" refer to in music?

The term "polyphonic" refers specifically to a texture in music that features multiple independent melodies occurring simultaneously. This means that each melody stands on its own, yet they are all woven together to create a rich, intricate musical fabric. Polyphony contrasts with monophony, which consists of a single melodic line without accompaniment.

For example, in a polyphonic composition, different voices or instruments can play different melodies that complement each other, common in styles such as Baroque music, where counterpoint is frequently used. Recognizing polyphony is key in understanding the development of Western music, as it showcases how composers effectively combined various melodic lines to enhance musical complexity and emotional depth.