MUIC & ACOUTIC – MUIC THEORY & HARMONY CALCULATOR
Counterpoint Rules
A precise tool.
What is the Counterpoint Rules & How does it work?
First species counterpoint is the simplest form of counterpoint, where each note in one voice corresponds to a single note in another voice. The basic rules include:
1. Consonance and Dissonance: Only consonant intervals (unisons, thirds, fifths, sixths, and octaves) should be used as final notes of a measure. Dissonant intervals (seconds, fourths, sevenths, ninths, elevenths, and tritones) can only occur on weak beats.
2. Leap Motion: Leaps should not exceed a major sixth in either direction. If a leap is larger than a minor third, it must be resolved by step in the opposite direction.
text{Leap} leq text{Major Sixth}
Leap = Interval between two notes; Major Sixth = 6 semitones
Parameters
Result
—
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the allowed final notes in a measure in first species counterpoint?
In first species counterpoint, only consonant intervals such as unisons, thirds, fifths, sixths, and octaves should be used as final notes of a measure.
Can dissonant intervals be used in first species counterpoint?
Yes, but they can only occur on weak beats. Dissonant intervals like seconds, fourths, sevenths, ninths, elevenths, and tritones are allowed under this condition.
What is the limit for leap motion in first species counterpoint?
Leaps should not exceed a major sixth in either direction. This rule helps maintain smooth voice leading.
How many notes in one voice correspond to another in first species counterpoint?
In first species counterpoint, each note in one voice corresponds to a single note in the other voice.
What are the key intervals considered consonant in first species counterpoint?
Unisons, thirds, fifths, sixths, and octaves are considered consonant intervals in first species counterpoint.
Can a tritone be used in first species counterpoint?
Yes, a tritone can be used in first species counterpoint, but it must occur on a weak beat.
What is the purpose of leap motion rules in counterpoint?
Leap motion rules help maintain smooth and natural-sounding voice leading by limiting how far one voice can move from another note to the next.
Results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice.