Topmusicanswers
- What is oblique motion in counterpoint?
- Are direct octaves allowed?
- What is oblique movement?
- What intervals can you use in first species counterpoint?
What is oblique motion in counterpoint?
The Definition of Motions
Motion, with regards to counterpoint, is the relationship between two notes in different voices and how they "move", with reference to each other, as the score progresses. Motion where one voice does not move and the other does is called oblique motion.
Are direct octaves allowed?
A venerable rule of traditional Western part writing is the so-called Direct Octaves Rule (also known as Hidden or Exposed octaves), whereby similar pitch motion (i.e., two or more voices moving in the same direction) to a perfect octave should be avoided unless step motion is used.
What is oblique movement?
Oblique motion occurs when one voice stays the same and the other voice moves up or down by step or leap. Similar motion occurs when both voices move in the same (or “similar”) direction—both up (by step or leap) or both down (by step or leap); similar motion is also called “direct” motion.
What intervals can you use in first species 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.
