I've begun to update and reoganize my theory materials in the "archives," which will eventually walk
a reader through a step-by-step program of study. Here are a few documents that have not yet found a home.
Handout: First-Species Counterpoint
This packet is heavily indebted to George Fisher, for whom I worked at NYU.
Handout: Getting Started with 4-voice Writing
Covers the basics of the 4-voice texture - spacing, doubling, SATB vs. keyboard-style notation,
and the I-V-I progression. My definitions for spacing and doubling are somewhat idiosyncratic, but not
incompatible with traditional terms. I've found that starting students off my way (with all close spacing, "normal" doubling, and keyboard
style) eliminates a lot of the crappy results and gives you something solid to build on.
Handout: Important Rules for 4-Part Writing
Yep, I do the "getting started" thing first, and then I start listing off the rules. I think
a few common rules (like the "frustrated leading tone") can be withheld until the second semester.