All Flashcards
Describe the structure of a canon.
A melody is imitated by one or more voices after a short delay. The melody may be repeated exactly or with some variations.
How does call and response work?
A soloist (the “caller”) is answered by a group (the “response”).
What is monophony?
A single melodic line, with no harmony or accompaniment.
What is homophony?
One main melody with harmonic accompaniment.
What is polyphony?
Multiple independent melodic lines happening at the same time.
What is counterpoint?
A specific type of polyphony, focusing on how independent melodic lines interact harmonically.
What is a cantus firmus?
A pre-existing melody used as the basis for a contrapuntal composition.
What is 'call and response' texture?
A soloist (the 'caller') is answered by a group (the 'response').
What is a canon?
A melody is played or sung and then layered on top of itself, displaced by time.
Define texture in music.
How many musical lines are happening at once and how they interact.
What is contrary motion?
When two voices move in opposite directions.
What is oblique motion?
When one voice stays the same while the other moves.
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.