fourth species
noun
variants:
or fourth-species counterpoint
Definition of fourth species
: species counterpoint in which the added voice is metrically displaced so as to produce a series of suspensions (see suspension sense 1e(1)) against the cantus firmus
The notation of the fourth species is similar to the second, but syncopated.— Sir Frederick Bridge, Counterpoint, 1878
— called also syncopated counterpoint
— see species counterpoint — compare first species, second species, third species, fifth speciesKeep scrolling for more