All Flashcards
What is the rhythmic relationship in first species counterpoint?
One note in the counterpoint for every one in the cantus firmus.
What motion is preferred when approaching perfect consonances?
Contrary or oblique motion is preferred.
What intervals should be avoided in counterpoint?
Avoid the tritone and intervals larger than a tenth between voices.
Describe first species counterpoint.
The simplest, using only whole notes. All notes sound together on strong beats.
Describe second species counterpoint.
Two notes in the top line for every one in the cantus firmus. Consonances on strong beats, dissonances on weak beats.
Describe third species counterpoint.
Four notes in the top line for every one in the cantus firmus. Introduces melodic embellishments and non-chord tones.
Describe the voice-leading rule regarding leaps.
Follow a skip in one direction with a step in the opposite direction.
What is a general rule regarding voice balance?
No voice should dominate; each should stand on its own.
What is a general rule regarding voice clarity?
Voices should be distinct, and the structure should be easy to follow.
What is a general rule regarding voice contrast?
Voices should be varied and interesting.
What type of motion is preferred in counterpoint?
Contrary or oblique motion is preferred.
What intervals should be avoided in counterpoint?
Avoid intervals larger than a tenth and the tritone.
How should a skip be followed in counterpoint?
Follow a skip in one direction with a step in the opposite direction.
What is the rhythmic relationship in first species counterpoint?
One note in the counterpoint for every one in the cantus firmus.
What is the rhythmic relationship in second species counterpoint?
Two notes in the counterpoint for every one in the cantus firmus.
What is the rhythmic relationship in third species counterpoint?
Four notes in the counterpoint for every one in the cantus firmus.
How should perfect consonances be approached?
Approach perfect consonances using contrary or oblique motion.
How should beginnings and endings be treated in counterpoint?
Beginnings and endings must be perfect consonances (perfect octaves or fifths).
What should be done with the leading tone?
Raise the leading tone when approaching the tonic from below.
What should the line opposing the cantus firmus have?
The line opposing the cantus firmus should have a “high point” on a strong beat.
Describe the structure of a canon.
A melody is imitated by one or more voices at a set time interval.
How is a canon created?
A melody is played or sung and then layered on top of itself, displaced by time.