ABSTRACT
Counterpoint and its more general synonym polyphony describe the simultaneous sounding of two or more melodic lines displaying independent rhythms and contours. A convincing counterpoint between melody and bass provides a musically sound framework that facilitates writing inner voices. Since the eighteenth century, counterpoint has been fashioned in such a way that it clearly reflects the functional harmonies that undergird it. Counterpoint is only as strong as the individual melodic lines that compose it. Adhering to them produces melodic lines that are likely to be musical and singable. Complete the exercises that follow. Use only consonances. Strive for as much contrary motion between the voices as possible. When adding the bass, use inversion to create more stepwise motion. Compose a soprano and bass over the given harmonic framework. Use as much contrary and oblique motion as possible, balance conjunct and disjunct motion, and use as many imperfect consonances as possible for a full sound.
