PT Journal
AU Hons, M
TI Unfinished "Counterpoint" by Karel Janecek
SO Musicologica Olomucensia
PY 2017
BP 51
EP 77
VL 25
IS 1
DI 10.5507/mo.2017.004
DE Contrapuntal techniques; vocal polyphony; instrumental polyphony
AB Janecek's unfinished textbook of counterpoint was created from 1945 to 1948. The writings are 150 pages and consist of two parts: Common theory of Counterpoint and Vocal Counterpoint. For the third piece on instrumental counterpoint, he completed six introductory chapters. According to Janecek, adequate knowledge of vocal polyphony technique is an indispensable part of a comprehensive musical-theoretical education. The study of counterpoint should be preceded by an understanding of the basics of classical harmony. Counterpoint must meet two basic requirements: melodic autonomy of voices and harmonic integrity of polyphony. The main characteristic of vocal polyphony is the absence of harmonic content, non-periodicity, and the exclusion of sequential repetition. Drawn from historical development Janecek recognized the personal and representative styles. The aim of counterpoint learning was a knowledge of four historical follow-up representative styles: (1) a capella, with a peak in Palestrina, (2) a sophisticated baroque style with a peak in Bach, (3) a classical and romantic style and (4) modern style of 20th century.
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