counterpoint Hear it!

counterpoint Definition

counter·point (ko̵unt′ər po̵int′)

noun

    1. the technique of combining two or more distinct lines of music that sound simultaneously, esp. with an emphasis on melodic, as opposed to harmonic, progression
    2. this kind of composition
  2. any melody played or sung against a basic melody
  3. a thing set up in contrast or interaction with another

Etymology: ME countrepoint < MFr contrepoint < It contrappunto, lit., pointed against: see counter- & point,

counterpoint Usage Examples

Converse of object

  • provide: The site provides a hard counterpoint to the soft green space of nearby Cathedral Gardens.
  • create: The entry of voices may create further rhythmic counterpoint.
  • offer: The Independent Multiple exhibitions offer a city-wide counterpoint to the International 04.
  • form: These serenely abstract images form a counterpoint to the haunting final photographs made at his father's bedside.
  • make: A mourning broach making a sad counterpoint to the mourning rings on her hands.
  • add: The chen loi - celeriac - added a crisp counterpoint to the tender pork.

Adjective modifier

  • imitative: In many ways, the work shows Rheinberger's classical leanings, with its substantial use of imitative counterpoint.
  • two-part: At bar 67 Clementi uses the octave quavers, derived from the first subject, but in two-part counterpoint, often in contrary motion.
  • ironic: There is also an underlying darkness and even more ironic counterpoint buried in the music and lyrics.
  • perfect: The closing sections feature some beautiful flute from Theo Travis providing perfect counterpoint to Wilson's vocals.
  • interesting: This forms an interesting counterpoint to the Family Group sculpture.
  • nice: A cranked up riff with almost angelic singing over the top gives a nice counterpoint.

Modifies a noun

  • exercise: This was after Ravel had composed the Quartet and he was still writing counterpoint exercises, she explained.
  • art: Tickets from Counterpoint Arts 01323 833 706 and at the door Saturday November 18 th Christmas Fayre at St Johns Church Hall in Polegate.
  • work: Candidates are asked to send, in advance of the interview, photocopied examples of their recent essay writing and harmony and counterpoint work.

Noun used with modifier

  • and/or: Admissions Candidates for admission will be asked to provide two essays and some technical exercises ( harmony and/or counterpoint ) from their school work.
  • harmony: Admissions Candidates for admission will be asked to provide two essays and some technical exercises ( harmony and/or counterpoint ) from their school work.
  • part: This is introduced on the first flute in two part counterpoint with the second.
  • cello: Dana Feder's achingly beautiful cello counterpoint the vocals and piano, with subtle church organ riffing completing the mystical effect.
  • sixteenth-century: Over a five-year period I wrote exercises in sixteenth-century counterpoint, starting with two-part writing and progressing to four parts.