counterpoint

counterpoint in music, the art of combining melodies each of which is independent though forming part of a homogeneous texture. The term derives from the Latin for "point against point," meaning note against note in referring to the notation of plainsong . The academic study of counterpoint was long based on Gradus ad Parnassum (1725, tr. 1943) by Johann Joseph Fux (1660-1741), an Austrian theorist and composer. This work formulates the study of counterpoint into five species—note against note, two notes against one, four notes against one, syncopation, and florid counterpoint, which combines the other species. Countless textbooks have followed this method, but since the early 20th cent. several theorists have based their courses in counterpoint on a direct study of 16th-century contrapuntal practice. The early master composers of contrapuntal music include Palestrina , Lasso , and Byrd . Polyphonic forms were later given a most brilliant and sophisticated expression during the baroque era in the works of J. S. Bach . See also polyphony ; imitation .

Bibliography: See W. Piston, Counterpoint (1947); H. Searle, Twentieth Century Counterpoint (1954).

counterpoint In music, technique in composition involving independent melodic lines that are sung or played simultaneously to produce harmony. The term derives from the medieval practice of adding an accompanying note to each note of a melody. Counterpoint writing reached its height in the 16th century in the work of William Byrd, Orlando di Lasso, and Giovanni Palestrina, organ compositions of J. S. Bach in the 18th century, and in the late works of Beethoven.

coun·ter·point / ˈkountərˌpoint/ • n. 1. Mus. the art or technique of setting, writing, or playing a melody or melodies in conjunction with another, according to fixed rules. ∎  a melody played in conjunction with another. 2. an argument, idea, or theme used to create a contrast with the main element. • v. [tr.] 1. Mus. add counterpoint to (a melody): the orchestra counterpoints the vocal part. 2. (often be counterpointed) emphasize by contrast: the cream walls and maple floors are counterpointed by black accents. ∎  compensate for.