A Treatise on Simple Counterpoint in Forty Lessons

by Friedrich J. Lehmann

Fig. 5.

SIMPLE COUNTERPOINT IN TWO PARTS

FIRST SPECIES

Two-part counterpoint comprises a cantus firmus and a counterpoint. [[Fig. 6.]]

Fig. 6.

Although in two-part counterpoint we have to deal with intervals, rather than harmonies, still the harmonic progressions represented by these intervals should be regarded.

The exercises should begin and close with tonic harmony. At the beginning the unison, fifth or octave, and at the close the unison or octave, are permitted. [[Fig. 7.]]

Fig. 7.

After the first measure it is better to use imperfect consonances only. The perfect consonances, however, may be used sparingly when a more melodious counterpoint is thereby obtained.

The unison may be used in the first and last measures only. [[Fig. 7.]]