In the second species, dissonance is allowed only if it is a(n)

Question

BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

In second species counterpoint, dissonance is allowed only if it is a passing or neighboring tone.

1) Relevant knowledge points and concepts
- Species counterpoint places a note-against-note framework: second species is two half-notes against one whole-note cantus firmus.  
- Beats: the first half-note falls on the strong beat (accented), the second half-note on the weak beat (unaccented).  
- Rules for dissonance: dissonances are permitted only on weak beats and only when they function as stepwise embellishments—specifically passing tones or neighboring tones. Dissonances must be approached and left by step (not by leap).

2) Step-by-step reasoning
- In second species each measure has two contrapuntal notes: the first is on the strong beat, the second on the weak beat.  
- A dissonance on the strong beat would create an accented dissonance; classical species rules forbid accented dissonances in second species.  
- Therefore any dissonance must occur on the weak (second) half-note. Even on the weak beat, the dissonance must be structural: it must be a passing tone (stepwise between two consonances in the same direction) or a neighboring tone (step away from a consonance and step back).

3) Intermediate “steps” (examples)
- Example passing tone: consonant interval (3rds) → dissonant 2nd on weak beat approached by step → consonant interval a step further.  
- Example neighboring tone: consonant → dissonant a step above on weak beat → return to the original consonance.

4) Why the correct answer is correct
- Only passing and neighboring tones satisfy the requirement of unaccented, stepwise dissonance in second species. They preserve smooth voice-leading and avoid the forbidden accented dissonance or leaps into dissonance.

5) Why other options are incorrect
- “Suspension.” Suspensions produce an accented dissonance on a strong beat that is tied from a previous consonance; that is not allowed in second species.  
- “Accented passing tone.” An accented passing tone is a dissonance on a strong beat—forbidden.  
- “Suspension or passing tone.” Suspensions are not permitted here, so this option is partially wrong.

6) Conclusion
This reasoning confirms the correct answer: "passing or neighboring tone."

In the second species, dissonance is allowed only if it is a(n) 单项选择题

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