Counterpoint is one of Western music’s most enduring crafts, and a method composers have relied on for centuries to balance independence and harmony.

In this quick "sneak peek," composer and tonebase Director of Content Trevor Bumgarner unpacks the principles of species counterpoint, explaining how a clear, structured approach can elevate your melodic writing and ear training.

Through five progressively complex “species,” Trevor reveals how you can build musical independence step by step...starting with simple note-against-note exercises and evolving toward flowing, expressive textures. He encourages learners to write and sing by hand, reconnecting with the vocal origins of counterpoint to strengthen the ear and imagination alike.


This timeless framework not only clarifies how great composers thought, but also gives today’s musicians a creative path to writing more beautiful, coherent melodies.

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