Counterpoint involves multiple independent melodies.

• A. Multiple independent melodic lines
• B. A single line of melody with accompaniment
• C. A rhythm pattern
• D. A key signature

Answer: (A)

Counterpoint centers on combining two or more melodies that move independently yet interlock to form a cohesive musical fabric. The best choice captures this idea: there are multiple independent melodic lines, each with its own contour and rhythmic flavor, whose interaction creates harmony. If you described a single line with accompaniment, that would be homophony—one main melody with supporting chords—rather than counterpoint. A rhythm pattern focuses on recurring rhythms rather than independent melodic voices, and a key signature deals with pitch organization at the tonal level, not texture. In practice, counterpoint emphasizes distinct voices that retain individuality while fitting together harmonically, as heard in Bach’s fugues where each voice enters and develops its own line within the overall structure.