fauxbourdon

foe-bor-DOE(H)N

[ French , false bass ]

Definition

1. In plain song, this term implies simple three part harmony, the plain song being the top voice, and the two other voices each, respectively, a sixth and a fourth below the plain song. This practice may have evolved from the English faburden, or vice-versa.
 

2. Simple harmonization of plain song in four parts with no polyphonic elaboration.

 
3. In hymn singing, a fauxbourdon is a treble descant superimposed upon the melody sung by the congregation.

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Last Updated: 2016-05-24 18:58:56