Polyphonic

Polyphonic (Gr. polys, 'many,' and phônē, 'voice'). When a musical composition consists of two or more parts, each of which has an independent melody of its own, it is said to be polyphonic, in opposition to a homophonic composition, consisting of a principal part with a leading idea, and accessory parts employed to strengthen it. Each part of a polyphonic composition aims at melodic perfection, and, while supporting the other, has an equal share in the entire effect. A Fugue (q.v.) is the most perfect example of polyphonic composition.