JBF_Second Species Counterpoint

Question 1

Permissible being on upbeat

Answer 1

It is permissible to begin on an upbeat, leaving a half-rest in the added voice.

Question 2

accented beat and unaccented beat rules

Answer 2

The accented beat must have only consonance (perfect or imperfect). The unaccented beat may have dissonance, but only as a passing tone, i.e. it must be approached and left by step in the same direction.

Question 3

the unison

Answer 3

Avoid the interval of the unison except at the beginning or end of the example, except that it may occur on the unaccented portion of the bar.

Question 4

successive accented perfect fifths or octaves must not be used as part of a sequential pattern.

Answer 4

Use caution with successive accented perfect fifths or octaves. They must not be used as part of a sequential pattern. The example shown is weak due to similar motion in the second measure in both voices. A good rule to follow: if one voice skips or jumps try to use step-wise motion in the other voice or at the very least contrary motion.