Reduction (music)

(a) first four measures of Bach's Preludium in C major (BWV 846a). (b) and (c) block chord reduction and voice leading reduction ease analysis and practice
Full score of the "Lacrimosa" from Mozart's Requiem. play
Two-hand piano reduction of the "Lacrimosa" from Mozart's Requiem, arranged by Franz Liszt. play
Two-hand piano reduction of the "Lacrimosa" from Mozart's Requiem, arranged by Carl Czerny. play
Four-hand piano reduction of the "Lacrimosa" from Mozart's Requiem, arranged by Czerny. play

In music, a reduction is an arrangement or transcription of an existing score or composition in which complexity is lessened to make analysis, performance, or practice easier or clearer; the number of parts may be reduced or rhythm may be simplified, such as through the use of block chords.