POLYCHORD Meaning and
Definition
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A polychord, in music theory, refers to the combination of two or more different chords sounding simultaneously. This technique is also known as chord combining or chord clusters. A polychord is constructed by layering one chord on top of another, resulting in a rich and complex harmonic texture.
To create a polychord, two or more chords are superimposed, typically with the lower chord functioning as the bass and the upper chord serving as the upper harmony. The individual chords may have different qualities, voicings, or functions; thus, a polychord can introduce new harmonic colors and dissonance to the musical composition.
Polychords are commonly used in modern and contemporary classical music, as well as in jazz and popular genres that embrace extended harmonies. They are often employed to create tension and dissonance, adding a sense of complexity and ambiguity to the tonal framework. Composers and arrangers utilize polychords to evoke specific moods or sonorities, pushing the bounds of traditional harmony.
Some well-known examples of polychords include the combination of a major chord with a minor chord, a dominant chord with a diminished chord, or even more complex combinations involving extended chord tones. The distinctive effect of polychords can be enhanced through careful voice leading, dynamic control, and instrumental timbre choices.
Overall, polychords are a valuable tool in music composition and arrangement, opening up possibilities for unique harmonies and sonorities that can captivate the listener's ear.
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An instrument having many strings; an apparatus which couples two octave notes.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for POLYCHORD
- oolychord
- lolychord
- -olychord
- 0olychord
- pilychord
- pklychord
- pllychord
- pplychord
- p0lychord
- p9lychord
- pokychord
- popychord
- pooychord
- poltchord
- polgchord
- polhchord
- poluchord
- pol7chord
- pol6chord
- polyxhord
Etymology of POLYCHORD
The word "polychord" is a combination of two elements: "poly" and "chord".
The prefix "poly-" comes from the Greek word "polys", meaning "many" or "multiple". This prefix is commonly used in English to indicate the presence of multiple or many of something.
The word "chord" comes from the Middle English word "corde", which came from the Old English word "corde", meaning "string of a musical instrument". It is ultimately derived from the Latin word "chorda", which has the same meaning.
When combined, "poly-" and "chord" create "polychord", which refers specifically to a complex chord that is made up of two or more different chords played simultaneously.
Similar spelling words for POLYCHORD
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