Species Counterpoint

“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.

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:

1. note against note
2. two notes against one
3. four notes against one
4. tied notes across the bar line
5. mixed (florid) counterpoint

Some of the topics you will become confident in are 

• distinguishing harmonic and melodic intervals,
• the classification of consonances (perfect and imperfect) 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