Topmusicanswers
In second species, one writes two half notes against a cantus firmus in whole notes. (Second species can also include writing three half notes against a cantus firmus of dotted whole notes in .)
- What are the rules of second species counterpoint?
- Can you repeat a note in second species counterpoint?
- What kind of dissonance is permitted in second species counterpoint?
- What are the rules of counterpoint?
What are the rules of second species counterpoint?
Beginning a second-species counterpoint
Begin a second-species counterpoint below the cantus firmus with do. Unisons are permitted for the first and last dyads of the exercise. A second-species line can begin with two half notes in the first bar, or a half rest followed by a half note.
Can you repeat a note in second species counterpoint?
6) Avoid Oblique motion in your counterpoint. Repeated notes are not allowed.
What kind of dissonance is permitted in second species counterpoint?
The half-note on the upbeat of each bar of the main body may be either consonant or dissonant with the c.f. If it is dissonant, it must enter by step and must continue by step in the same direction. Such a dissonant tone is called a passing tone. (This is the only dissonance permitted in the second species.)
What are the rules of counterpoint?
Counterpoint Rules
- The interval between the given note and the note in your counter-melody should be consonant (major/minor 3rd or 6th, perfect unison, 5th, or octave, or a compound form).
- If the counter-melody is above the given melody, then the last note of the counter-melody should be in the tonic chord.
