Counterpoint/Tonal Composition

In this course we will study the fundamentals of two- and three-part polyphonic styles. Using the principles of species counterpoint, we will acquire a dependable contrapuntal technique to write short compositions, first in two parts and eventually in three. Assignments will include exercises in free counterpoint, strict canon, and invertible counterpoint. As a final project, students will have a choice of either composing a 3-part fugue in the style of Bach or analyzing a Bach fugue. Our studies will include a brief survey of the historical origins of Western polyphony and analyzing passages of select compositions of the Baroque, Classical, and Romantic periods which illustrate principles of "counterpoint in composition".