Designed for courses in beginning and advanced counterpoint, this established text introduces the contrapuntal style of 17th and 18th century music through analysis and writing. While a limited understanding of contrapuntal elements may be gained through analysis alone, these elements are grasped in a more intimate way through the actual writing of contrapuntal examples. Also, by linking the study of counterpoint to music of a specific period, the text provides a clear model for students to emulate and a definite basis for the criticism of student work.
Analysis-based on a study of contrapuntal music of the Baroque period, with emphasis on the techniques and forms involved. Pg.___
Writing-first of exercises using a free species approach, then of music involving the forms or techniques studied (e.g. canons, inventions, figures, chorale preludes, and passacaglias). Pg.___
Uses a modified species approach-"species" in the sense that basic rhythmic ratios are specified at first, "modified" in that whole-note cantus firmi have been replaced by melodies that are metrically organized and often carry strong harmonic implications. Pg.___