Species Counterpoint
Learn the basics of the writing contrapuntal 2-part music using the species method.
An accessible and practical course in the basics of 2-part contrapuntal composition
This course will give you a thorough preparation in two-part species counterpoint. You will learn how to effectively write counterpoint in the five distinct "species" or types of exercise.
Course Summary
“Species” counterpoint is the traditional method for learning how to write contrapuntal music.
The species counterpoint method dates back several hundred years, but it’s still taught in Universities and music schools across the world today, because of its simplified, step-by-step approach.
The problem is that most species counterpoint textbooks are outdated, dry and confusing.
(If you have ever tried to read Johannes Fux’s treatise you will know what I mean!) Many texts insist on using obscure or extinct clefs, which means reading the examples is both challenging and confusing for the modern music student. And in any case, the best way to learn about counterpoint is by hearing what you see.
f you are learning for your own pleasure, you’ll find this course is accessible and practical, and will open the door for you to more in-depth study of counterpoint.
f you need to study species counterpoint as part of your music course, this video course will be a life saver for you!
This course will give you a thorough preparation in two-part species counterpoint. You will learn how to effectively write counterpoint in the five distinct species:
→ note against note
→ two notes against one
→ four notes against one
→ tied notes across the bar line
→ mixed (florid) counterpoint
Course length: c. 1 hour of video tutorials
PDF included: yes
Course validity: 1 year from date of purchase
Some of the topics you will become confident in are:
→ distinguishing harmonic and melodic intervals
→ the classification of consonances and dissonances
→ the correct preparation and resolution of dissonances → the use of tritone, ligature and cambiata
→ the three types of motion: similar, contrary and oblique
After studying this course you will be able to: Compose contrapuntal music in two parts
Course Contents
Victoria Williams
Hi, I'm Victoria Williams!
I started MyMusicTheory.com way back in 2007 - all my courses have been thoroughly tested by thousands of students and are constantly updated and improved. Here's a little bit more about me...
- I graduated with a degree in music, (specialising in musicology), from the University of Leeds in 1995.
- I hold both diplomas in music theory from Trinity College London AmusTCL (distinction) and LmusTCL. I also hold Grade 8 Composition (Distinction) from LCM. I teach woodwind and piano (and theory!) in South Cambridgeshire as a private and visiting music teacher, and also in a volunteer role at the local music workshop.
Students of my courses generally gain top marks in their exams (and so can you!)
Read what others have said about me and my courses here:
https://pianodao.com/2023/11/04/music-theory-online-courses/
https://www.musicteachermagazine.co.uk/content/review/tech-reviews-music-theory-apps
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