Which term is described as a polyphonic contrapuntal form where the subject is introduced at the start and imitated by others?

Which term is described as a polyphonic contrapuntal form where the subject is introduced at the start and imitated by others?

• A. Fugue
• B. Counterpoint/Contrapuntal
• C. Hemiola
• D. Rubato

Answer: (A)

The idea described fits a fugue. In a fugue, a single voice presents a main theme called the subject right at the outset, and then other voices enter in imitation, restating that subject at different pitches and times. This interweaving, strictly imitative texture is the hallmark of a polyphonic contrapuntal form built around the subject, often developing through episodes and sometimes using countersubjects. The other terms don’t name a specific form built on subject imitation: counterpoint/contrapuntal is the broad technique of writing independent voices; hemiola is a rhythmic shift; rubato is expressive tempo freedom.

The idea described fits a fugue. In a fugue, a single voice presents a main theme called the subject right at the outset, and then other voices enter in imitation, restating that subject at different pitches and times. This interweaving, strictly imitative texture is the hallmark of a polyphonic contrapuntal form built around the subject, often developing through episodes and sometimes using countersubjects. The other terms don’t name a specific form built on subject imitation: counterpoint/contrapuntal is the broad technique of writing independent voices; hemiola is a rhythmic shift; rubato is expressive tempo freedom.