BM or BMus Bachelor of Music Counterpoint and Fugal Analysis 2

Question 1

In strict two-voice counterpoint, which interval is considered a 'perfect consonance' that must be approached with particular care?

Accepted Answer

Perfect fifth

Answer

Perfect fifths are perfect consonances and must be approached by contrary or oblique motion to avoid parallel fifths.

Question 2

A 'real answer' in a fugue transposes the subject to the dominant without alteration, while a 'tonal answer' does what?

Accepted Answer

Modifies certain intervals to keep the answer within the home key area

Answer

A tonal answer modifies certain intervals (typically when the subject leaps a fifth or emphasizes the dominant) to maintain tonal stability.

Question 3

Which species of counterpoint introduces passing tones on weak beats against whole notes in the cantus firmus?

Accepted Answer

Second species

Answer

Second species counterpoint features two half notes against each whole note of the cantus firmus, allowing passing tones on the weak second beat.

Question 4

In fugal writing, the 'episode' serves what primary structural function?

Accepted Answer

Provides transitional material between subject entries using sequences or fragmentation

Answer

Episodes are passages between subject entries that provide contrast, modulate to new key areas, and often use sequential or fragmentary development.

Question 5

The term 'invertible counterpoint at the twelfth' means the two voices can be exchanged so that the interval between them becomes:

Accepted Answer

A twelfth lower or higher, with consonances and dissonances swapping roles

Answer

In invertible counterpoint at the twelfth, when one voice moves a twelfth, thirds become tenths and the intervallic relationships transform accordingly.

BM or BMus Bachelor of Music Practice Test

BM or BMus Bachelor of Music Practice Test

BM or BMus Bachelor of Music Counterpoint and Fugal Analysis 2