A secondary melody played simultaneously with the main melody.

A secondary melody played against a principle theme, usually after that theme has already been heard by itself. The addition of a countermelody to a repeated theme is a subtle and effective way for a composer to vary music.

A less important melody that can be played along with the main melody.

A melody heard, played, or sung simultaneously with another melody as an integral part of the composition. Also called "counterpoint."

a secondary tune, almost equal in importance to the main melody sung or played elsewhere, and occurring simultaneously.

A vocal part which contrasts with the principal melody.

An accompanying melody sounded against the principal melody. Example: Sousa, The Stars and Stripes Forever, Trio Real Audio: 28k | 56k | About this album In this famous march, we hear the high piccolos playing a countermelody against the main melody.

a melody designed to fit with another, more important melody. A countermelody could be omitted from a performance, but a principal melody is indispensable.

An accompanying melody sounded against the principal melody. In this famous march, we hear the high piccolos playing a countermelody against the main melody. Example: Sousa, The Stars and Stripes Forever, Trio Real Audio: 28K | 56K | About this album