Counter-melody

In music, a counter-melody (often countermelody) is a sequence of notes, perceived as a melody, written to be played simultaneously with a more prominent lead melody. In other words, it is a secondary melody played in counterpoint with the primary melody. A counter-melody performs a subordinate role, and it is typically heard in a texture consisting of a melody plus accompaniment.

In marches, the counter-melody is often given to the trombones or horns. American composer David Wallis Reeves is credited with this innovation in 1876.^[2]

The more formal term countersubject applies to a secondary or subordinate melodic idea in a fugue. A countermelody differs from a harmony part sung by a backup singer in that whereas the harmony part typically lacks its own independent musical line, a countermelody is a distinct melodic line.

References

^ Benward, Bruce, and Marilyn Nadine Saker (2009). Music in Theory and Practice Vol. 1, p.138. Seventh edition. Boston: McGraw-Hill. ISBN 978-0-07-310188-0.
^ "U.S. Army Bands in History: Civilian Bands Replace Military Bands". Archived from the original on July 21, 2007.

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[1] Benward, Bruce, and Marilyn Nadine Saker (2009). Music in Theory and Practice Vol. 1, p.138. Seventh edition. Boston: McGraw-Hill. ISBN 978-0-07-310188-0.

[2] "U.S. Army Bands in History: Civilian Bands Replace Military Bands". Archived from the original on July 21, 2007.

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v t e Accompaniment
Musical instruments	Acoustic guitar Double bass Drum kit Electric bass Electric guitar Electric piano Hammond organ Piano Pipe organ
Techniques and styles	Alberti bass Arpeggio Banjo roll Bassline Basso continuo Chord Triadic chord Power chord Comping Counter-melody Drone Figuration Fill Groove Harmonization Obbligato Ostinato Riff Vamp
Music ensembles	Backup band Musical ensemble Orchestra Pit orchestra Rhythm section

See also

References