Which term describes the musical part that accompanies a melody?

• A. a tempo
• B. accompaniment
• C. Adagio
• D. Allargando

Answer: (B)

The key idea is recognizing the difference between the main tune and its supporting texture. The melody is the prominent line, while the accompanying part provides harmony and rhythm to support it. That supporting part is called accompaniment. For example, in a singer’s line with piano, the piano’s chords and rhythmic figures form the accompaniment, backing the melody without overpowering it. The other terms describe how fast or slow the music is or expressive changes (tempo directions or markings like Adagio, which means slow; Allargando, which broadens the tempo or texture), not the part that accompanies the melody.