Parlor songs were written for home performance by amateur musicians and feature what type of accompaniment?

• A. Simple right-hand melodies with basic left-hand chordal accompaniment
• B. Complex left-hand patterns with ornate right-hand
• C. No accompaniment, solo melody
• D. Heavy syncopation and improvisation

Answer: (A)

Parlor songs are meant for home performance by amateur musicians, so the piano part is designed to support the singer without demanding technical virtuosity. The right hand typically carries a straightforward vocal melody that the singer would perform, while the left hand supplies simple harmonic support—basic chords or chordal patterns. This keeps the music accessible, letting the lyrics and singing take center stage. The other possibilities would require more virtuosity, complex patterns, or no accompaniment, which isn’t consistent with the casual, domestic nature of parlor songs.