How Do You Learn 18Th Century Musical Counterpoint?
By the 1700s, Johann Sebastian Bach had become one of the most prolific and relevant composers. History has a kinder view of his work than did his contemporaries, but he’s now regarded as one of the most influential composers of all time. People love his music for its richly woven melodic lines, or counterpoint. If you’re a music lover, consider learning Bach’s style as a guide to this wonderful technique. Listen to recordings of “The Well-Tempered Clavier” and “The Art of the Fugue.” These were two of Bach’s most famous works for keyboard instruments and provide clear examples of his contrapuntal style. Play through some of Bach’s simpler keyboard works, like the Two-Part Inventions or the Little Preludes and Fugues. Diving into the deep counterpoint of his more advanced pieces can be overwhelming, so learn the easier ones first as a guide. Purchase a textbook on counterpoint and read it through. Most good books have study questions as well as chapter summaries, which will help you le
