LESSON IX

FIFTH SPECIES: FLORID COUNTERPOINT

Fig.
78.

Florid counterpoint is a mixture of the second, third and fourth species.

In addition to these species eighth-notes may be used in groups of two on the second and fourth quarters of the measure. Both notes should be approached and left stepwise, with the exception that the first may be taken by a skip. [[Fig. 79.]]

Fig.
79.

Not more than one and one-half measures of any one species should be used continuously in one part. [[Fig. 80.]]

Fig.
80.

In the use of quarter-notes it is necessary to exercise care. They may be used on the first half when preceded by quarter-notes, when the entire measure is filled, or when they precede a half-note which is the preparation of a suspension. On the second half they are always good. [[Fig. 81.]]

Fig.
81.

For the present the suspension should not be less than a half-note or its rhythmic equivalent in the ornamental resolution.

In this species the suspension may resolve ornamentally, that is, it may have some note or notes interpolated between the suspension and its resolution. The relative position of the suspension and its resolution must remain the same as in the regular resolution. [[Fig. 82.]]

When the suspension is left by a leap, the note skipped to should be consonant with the other part (b). When eighth-notes are used, as at a, they must be approached and left stepwise.

The suspension, instead of being sustained as a half-note, may be repeated on the second quarter, as at c. In this case it is best to continue stepwise through the tone of resolution.

At d the resolution, instead of coming on the second half, appears on the quarters on either side. This is good.

Fig.
82.

The ornamental resolution may be used in either part.

Use the suspension freely.

The solutions should be musical, and are to be written over and over again until such are secured.

All cadences of the second, third and fourth species, or any combination of these, may be used.