1st species counterpoint

What harmonic intervals should be used for the opening?

P8, PU, or P5 (only with the cantus in the lower voice)

What harmonic intervals should be used for the closing?

6-8 or 3-U (10-8)

What should be raised in minor before 7?

Raise bŷ and raise b6

What should be avoided to prevent an A2?

Avoid raising b6 if it precedes 7

What type of motion should be used mostly between parts?

Contrary motion

What should be avoided in terms of intervals?

Parallel octaves or fifths

How should perfect intervals be approached?

By contrary motion, or in similar motion with a stepwise upper voice

How many parallel imperfect consonances can be written in a row?

No more than three (3 or 6)

What should be included in the mix of consonances?

A mix of perfect and imperfect consonances, with more imperfect than perfect

What should be avoided in harmonic intervals?

Dissonant harmonic intervals (including P4)

When can accidentals be added in minor?

Only at the cadence

What should be avoided in melodic intervals?

Dissonant melodic intervals (e.g., m7, M7, d5, A4, or A2 in minor)

How should leaps be approached and left?

By step in contrary motion if possible

What should be aimed for in melodic line contour?

An interesting contour; avoid static repeating notes or circling around one note

What should be kept distinct in the ranges of voices?

Avoid overlapping or crossing voices

What type of motion should be primarily aimed for?

Primarily stepwise motion, with no more than two skips in a row