answer in music meaning | TheMusicDictionary

Meaning of "Answer" in Music

In the context of music, the term "answer" refers to a specific musical phrase or section that follows a preceding musical phrase called the "call." The call and answer technique is commonly used in various musical genres, including folk, blues, jazz, gospel, and many traditional music styles from around the world.

The call and answer technique involves a musical conversation between different instruments or voices. The call is typically a melodic or rhythmic phrase that serves as a musical question, and the answer is a different melodic or rhythmic phrase that responds to the call. The answer can be similar to the call or provide a contrasting musical idea. This back-and-forth exchange creates a dynamic and interactive musical dialogue.

The call and answer technique is often used to create tension, build anticipation, and engage the listener. It adds a sense of rhythmic and melodic interplay, creating a musical conversation that can be both expressive and engaging. This technique can be found in various musical elements, such as melodies, solos, instrumental sections, and vocal performances.

**In summary, "answer" in music refers to a musical phrase or section that responds to a preceding musical phrase called the "call." It is a technique used to create a dynamic and interactive musical dialogue.**

Second entry of the subject in a fugue, usually pitched a fourth below or a fifth above the original subject. If the theme is altered slightly in the answer, then it is said to be a 'tonal' answer, if it is entirely unaltered, it is said to be a 'real' answer.