Part Writing Rules

Part relationship where neither part moves

• Static

• Oblique

• Contrary

• Similar

• Parallel

Part relationship where only one part moves

• Static

• Oblique

• Contrary

• Similar

• Parallel

Part relationship where both move, in opposite directions

• Static

• Oblique

• Contrary

• Similar

• Parallel

Part relationship where both parts move in the same direction, by DIFFERENT intervals

• Static

• Oblique

• Contrary

• Similar

• Parallel

Part relationship where both move in same direction by the SAME interval

• Static

• Oblique

• Contrary

• Similar

• Parallel

Parallel 5ths or 8ths

• are two parts separated by a 5th or 8th (objectionable when two parts move to new pitches by the same interval

• are two parts (not separated by a 5th or 8th) that move a 5th or 8th in the same direction

Occurs when the outer parts move in the same direction into a 5th or octave, with a leap in the soprano part (the bass may move by leap or step)

• Parallel 5ths or Octaves

• Contrary 5ths or Octaves

• Direct (Hidden) Fifths and Octaves

• Unequal 5ths or Octaves

Occurs when octaves or 5ths move in contrary motion from one octave/5th to another.

• Parallel Octaves or 5ths

• Contrary Octaves or 5ths

• Unequal 5ths

• Direct Octaves or 5ths

When a P 5th is followed by a °5th, or vice versa

(This is sometimes allowed when it occurs between the bass line and another part)

• Parallel 5ths

• Direct 5ths

• Unequal 5ths

• Contrary 5ths

Name the part writing error

• Parallel Octaves

• Direct Octaves

• Contrary Octaves

• Parallel 5ths