Help with Counterpoint

[Dogbertday]

I'm currently studying counterpoint (not with an instructor, though I do have knowledgable people around me (though not at the moment obviously) that can check my work and give me pointers if i ask)

My question has to do with the counterpoint line being in the same mode as the cantus firmus. this does not seem to be a problem when the counterpoint line begins on the unison with the cantus firmus but only when it starts on the fifth.

My question: as long as I am no using accidentals and it ends on the first degree of the mode, how can the counterpoint line be in a different mode than the cantus firmus?

I will continue to look for an online resource that thoroughly explains this and will post here if I find an answer.

I've read this section in Fux's text but am still confused. any insight is appreciated.

Thanks in advance!!!

[Dogbertday]

UPDATE!!!!

does it simply imply a different mode if you start a counterpoint line in the bass on the 5th scale degree (or anything except the unison/octave)?

This seems to be what i've gotten...

Derived this from information on this site
http://www.listeningarts.com/music/g...pecies/1st.htm

[SteveFreides]

Originally Posted by Dogbertday

UPDATE!!!!

does it simply imply a different mode if you start a counterpoint line in the bass on the 5th scale degree (or anything except the unison/octave)?

Yes, it would imply a different mode or key - you don't want to do that. Always the tonic in the bass if you are supplying the lower line.

NB: Species counterpoint is often studied in the modal context of the Renaissance but it needn't be. One of the main reasons to study it is that it's an important foundational element of music composed in the Baroque through Romantic eras.

-S-