In what kind of harmony does the main melody have supporting chords that change at a different rate than the melody?

The correct choice is homophonic harmony, which is characterized by a main melody accompanied by chords. In this style, the supporting chords change in relation to the melody, often providing harmonic structure and context while the melody remains prominent. This can create a sense of direction, as the listener is typically drawn to the main melody, with the chords enhancing its emotional and tonal qualities without competing with it.

In context, polyphonic harmony involves multiple independent melodies occurring simultaneously, which change at different rates, creating a more complex interaction than the straightforward layering found in homophony. Monophonic texture, on the other hand, consists of a single melodic line without any accompaniment, eliminating any harmonic support altogether. Counterpoint is a technique within polyphony that involves the relationship between independent melodic lines, focusing on their interplay rather than on a primary melody with accompaniment.

Thus, in homophonic harmony, the distinct relationship between the melody and chords – with the latter changing at a different rate – exemplifies its defining characteristic of having a clear melodic focus supported by harmonizing elements.