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I wrote the following pieces using species counterpoint, which is a method that was used for composing music in the 1600’s and 1700’s. While I was learning and practicing it, my ultimate goal was (and still is) to write something simple and beautiful. It’s been about six years later, and I’ve finally achieved my goal. Hope you enjoy playing the following pieces!

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These “bagpipe melodies” have a constant drone note in the bass played with the melody. This is known as “oblique motion”; one voice stays the same while the other one moves around.

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I wrote Marigold, Viola and Zinnia using third species counterpoint; four notes against one.

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I used fourth species counterpoint to write “Floridian Waltz.”

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Night at the Pub: This song is about a pub in Kinvara, Ireland where we saw live music and had a few drinks. If you’re an acoustic singer-songwriter looking for new easy songs to play, consider adding this one to your repertoire. It has a catchy melody and only a few chords.

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