Counterpoint: The Polyphonic Vocal Style of the Sixteenth Century

by Knud Jeppesen, Glen Haydon (Translator)

2020 Reprint of the 1939 Edition. Full facsimile of the original edition and not reproduced with Optical Recognition software. In music theory counterpoint is the relationship between voices which are harmonically interdependent (polyphony) yet independent in rhythm and contour. It has been most commonly identified in the European classical tradition, strongly developing during the Renaissance and in much of the common practice period, especially in the Baroque. The term originates from the Latin punctus contra punctum meaning "point against point", i.e. "note against note". This classic introductory text focuses on the polyphonic vocal style perfected by Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina (1525 - 1594), the Italian Renaissance composer of sacred music and the best-known 16th-century representative of the Roman School of musical composition. Unlike many other texts, it maintains a careful balance between theoretical and practical problems, between historical and systematic methodology. The result is an exceptionally useful resource, ideal for classroom use in teaching modal counterpoint.

Genres: Music, Nonfiction, Textbooks, Reference

322 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1939

Reviews

[Blunt Of Mercia]

One of the best books I have read on any musical subject.

[Clayton]

Nice account of Renaissance counterpoint, but also the version I read is a prime example of why the most literal translation is not necessarily the best. A workbook should not be phrased mostly in the passive voice.

[rae diamond]

i'm still reading this. this here is my particular musical passion. only recommended for aspiring composers, like myself.

[Richard Pohl]

Deserves classic status... explains a lot about modal counterpoint´s techniques and history, yet I´d be happy for an edition with contemporary clefs. Nevertheless, recommended :)

[Daniel Michalak]

A good, detailed study of polyphony.

[Des Bladet]

I'm shelving this under "Oh wait I have to know the alto and tenor clefs?". I'll have another go when and if I do.