Book cover of The Study of Counterpoint: From Johann Joseph Fux's Gradus ad Parnassum

Book description

The most celebrated book on counterpoint is Fux's great theoretical work Gradus ad Parnassum. Since its appearance in 1725, it has been used by and has directly influenced the work of many of the greatest composers. J.S. Bach held it in high esteem, Leopold Mozart trained his famous son from…


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Why read it?

1 author picked The Study of Counterpoint as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

I wanted to learn how to write melodies and countermelodies from the best, and Fux is the legend who taught the greats. Bach, Mozart, Haydn, and Beethoven all carefully studied these sage lessons.

Even though it was written in 1725, the book is enormously approachable, written in a series of conversations between a teacher and student. And yes, you don’t have to read it in Latin; it’s been translated into modern English. 

From Deke's list on The best books to make great music.

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