What aspect of music does harmony primarily refer to?

Harmony primarily refers to the combination of different musical notes played together, creating a rich and textured sound. This involves layering notes to build chords, which enhance the overall musicality and can convey various emotions and feelings. Harmony plays a critical role in defining the character of the music, as it supports and complements the melody.

Understanding harmony is essential for grasping how songs are structured and how different elements work together to create a cohesive musical experience. It contrasts with melody, which focuses on a single line of notes or pitches, and rhythm, which relates to the timing and beats in music. Additionally, speed or tempo affects how the music is delivered but does not define harmony itself. Thus, harmony is fundamental as it represents the foundation upon which melodies are constructed and provides depth to musical compositions.