The 5th is approached by similar motion (both parts move upwards in the same direction, instead of one part going up and other part down (“contrary motion”) or staying the same (“oblique motion”). The bass and soprano parts form a perfect 5th.
Double the root or fifth in root position chords. The alto and tenor lines should not move about much at all.ģa. The soprano line should have an interesting melody.Ģc. NO dissonant leaps (seventh, augmented or diminished intervals), choose small intervals. You need to use them when you are harmonizing a melody, creating a bass line with figured bass, or realizing a figured bass.Ĭlick on each rule for more details about it.ġc. These rules of harmony need to be learnt. Grade Six Music Theory - The Rules of Harmony