Which term describes the use of several different keys at the same time?

Which term describes the use of several different keys at the same time?

• A. Polytonality
• B. Piano
• C. Ostinato
• D. Pesante

Answer: (A)

Polytonality is the use of several different keys at the same time. By layering tonal centers, different parts establish distinct keys that sound together, creating a harmonically rich or adventurous texture. This is different from simply moving from one key to another over time (modulation), because the keys overlap and are heard simultaneously rather than sequentially. The other terms don’t describe this harmonic idea: piano can refer to the instrument or a soft dynamic marking, ostinato is a repeated melodic or rhythmic figure, and pesante means heavy in character.

Polytonality is the use of several different keys at the same time. By layering tonal centers, different parts establish distinct keys that sound together, creating a harmonically rich or adventurous texture. This is different from simply moving from one key to another over time (modulation), because the keys overlap and are heard simultaneously rather than sequentially.

The other terms don’t describe this harmonic idea: piano can refer to the instrument or a soft dynamic marking, ostinato is a repeated melodic or rhythmic figure, and pesante means heavy in character.