First Species Counterpoint
Definition
First species counterpoint is a musical technique where each note in the melody is matched with one note in the accompanying harmony. The melody moves at a 1:1 ratio with the harmony.
Analogy
Imagine you and your best friend are walking together, taking one step for every step they take. You both move at the same pace, always staying side by side.
Related terms
Second Species Counterpoint: A musical technique where there are two notes in the melody for every one note in the accompanying harmony.
Third Species Counterpoint: A musical technique where there are four or more notes in the melody for every one note in the accompanying harmony.
Fourth Species Counterpoint: A musical technique where there is syncopation between the melody and harmony, creating tension and release.
"First Species Counterpoint" appears in:
Study guides (1)
Are you a college student?
Study guides for the entire semester
200k practice questions
Glossary of 50k key terms - memorize important vocab
Resources
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.