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Counterpoint for Songwriters: Combining Independent Melodic Lines

The Power of Contrary Motion

When your lead vocal melody moves UP in pitch, design your bassline or guitar counter-melody to move DOWN in pitch! Contrary motion creates maximum harmonic independence.

Avoiding Parallel 5ths & Octaves

Classical counterpoint rules avoid parallel 5th intervals to keep separate vocal/instrumental voices sounding distinct.

Expand Your Songwriting Toolkit

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