What does harmony mean in music?

Harmony in music refers to the combination of different musical notes played or sung simultaneously. This aspect of music involves the way in which different pitches interact, creating a texture that contributes to the overall sound and emotional effect of a piece. Harmony supports melody, enriches the musical experience, and provides depth; it allows melodies to stand out while also complementing them. Different types of harmonies can create various feelings, from consonance that sounds pleasant to dissonance that introduces tension.

The other choices, while important elements of music, define different aspects. The pattern of beats refers to rhythm, dynamic changes relate to the volume and intensity of sound, and the melody represents a single line of musical notes, often the most recognizable part of a song. Harmony, specifically, focuses on the simultaneous sound of these musical notes and how they interact with each other.