Final answer:
Music that features the simultaneous use of several rhythmic patterns is called polyrhythm. It's essential in traditional African music dances and is exemplified in some modern visual artworks like Pollock's paintings, mirroring the improvisational element of jazz.
Step-by-step explanation:
Music that features the simultaneous use of several rhythmic patterns is called polyrhythm. This complex musical texture is prevalent in traditional African music, where it plays a vital role in dance performances, creating tension and complexity. For instance, in Steppin', dancers might use a cane to produce one rhythm while simultaneously creating another with their feet. This concept of polyrhythm is also found in visual arts, where rhythm is used as a visual effect in compositions, such as Jackson Pollock's Autumn Rhythm (Number 30), which embodies the improvisational feel of jazz music.
Polyphony, on the other hand, was a significant change during the Renaissance period, leading to the use of larger ensembles with a blend of vocal ranges. While polyphony involves independent melodic lines, polyrhythm focuses on the layering of different rhythms. Both require considerable skill and contribute to the richness of the musical experience.