Topmusicanswers
- What intervals are allowed in second species counterpoint?
- What dissonances are allowed in second species counterpoint?
- What is a skip in counterpoint?
What intervals are allowed in second species counterpoint?
Beginning a second-species counterpoint
A second-species line can begin with two half notes in the first bar, or a half rest followed by a half note. Beginning with a half rest establishes the rhythmic profile more readily, making it easier for the listener to parse, so it is often preferable.
What dissonances are allowed 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 is a skip in counterpoint?
A "skip" is an interval of a third or fourth. (See Steps and skips.) An interval of a fifth or larger is referred to as a "leap". A few further rules given by Fux, by study of the Palestrina style, and usually given in the works of later counterpoint pedagogues, are as follows.
