Sung in alternation (10) Crossword Clue
Answer: ANTIPHONAL
The crossword clue Sung in alternation (10) has the answer ANTIPHONAL. "Antiphonal" refers to a style of singing where two choirs or groups alternate in performing parts of a song or chant. This practice is often seen in religious or liturgical music, where one group responds to the other.
Understanding Antiphonal: The Musical Art of Call and Response
Antiphonal refers to a style of music where voices or choirs sing in alternation, creating a dialogue-like exchange between different groups.
This ten-letter word captures the essence of responsive singing that has been fundamental to religious and secular music traditions for centuries.
The term originates from the Greek word "antiphonos," meaning "responsive" or "answering back." In antiphonal singing, two choirs, soloists, or musical groups take turns performing verses, creating a conversational musical structure.
This alternating pattern builds dynamic tension and engagement, making it particularly effective in worship services, classical compositions, and even contemporary music arrangements.
Musical Characteristics of Antiphonal Style
Antiphonal music creates spatial and temporal dimensions in performance. The alternating voices often occupy different physical positions - such as opposite sides of a cathedral or concert hall - enhancing the stereo effect and immersive experience.
This positioning allows listeners to follow the musical conversation as it moves between locations.The technique serves both practical and artistic purposes.
Historically, antiphonal singing helped manage large congregations by dividing them into responsive groups. Artistically, it creates opportunities for musical dialogue, echo effects, and building climactic moments through layered entrances.
Tips for Understanding Crossword Context
When encountering "sung in alternation" in crosswords, consider these related terms: responsive, call-and-response, alternating, choral, liturgical, and ecclesiastical. The clue might reference church music, classical composition techniques, or traditional folk singing styles.
Related crossword answers might include: CANON (overlapping voices), ROUND (circular singing), HYMNAL (songbook), CHORAL (choir-related), or RESPONSORY (liturgical antiphonal singing).
Sung in alternation (10) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q: Is antiphonal singing only religious?
A: No, while it has strong religious traditions, antiphonal techniques appear in secular classical music, folk traditions, and contemporary compositions.
Q: How does antiphonal differ from call-and-response?
A: They're closely related, but antiphonal specifically refers to alternating performance by organized groups, while call-and-response can be more spontaneous and individual.
Q: What makes a performance truly antiphonal?
A: True antiphonal performance requires structured alternation between distinct musical groups or voices, often with spatial separation and organized musical dialogue.
