Counterpoint w/Scott (Any grade, Full Year)

Counterpoint is the artful interplay of two or more melodic lines. In this class, we’ll take a historical view of how counterpoint has been written: what are the ‘rules’ of writing polyphonically (with multiple melodic voices), and how have those rules changed over time? We will experiment with writing counterpoint in a variety of different historical styles, from the simple harmonies of 12th century church songs, through the wildly ornate flourishes of the baroque period, into the angular and dissonant counterpoint practiced by modernist composers in the 20th century. We might even venture to formulate our own “rules” for writing polyphonic music. Students signing up for this class should know how to read music.