Examples 10a - Fundamentals of Part-writing

Harmonize the following melody in a four-part chorale style:

• Choose a cadence for the end.
  • Refer to Unit 7c to review the types of cadences.
• Create the rest of the diatonic progression that begins on tonic and ends with your cadence. (If not already provided.)
  • This will establish your key center. Refer to Unit 6b for a review of the three primary harmonic functions: tonic, dominant, and pre-dominant.
• Compose a bass line based on your harmonization.
  • This will resemble 1:1 counterpoint, so refer to Unit 5b.
  • Contrary motion against the soprano line is preferred.
• Fill in the alto and tenor voices.
  • Refer to the rules for voicing, range, and doubling in Unit 6b.
• When writing your parts, always strive to have voice-leading that is as smooth as possible by emphasizing stepwise motion.
  • Bass lines are the exception and will often have more leaps, especially when using root-position chords.