The Number of the Beast in Music? Through John Blow's Bass Rules n. 3

What does it mean when you encounter a lot of 666 in a basso continuo?

Well, if you were wondering, it has nothing to do with the apocalypse!

When you come across a series of 6 in a basso continuo, you are most likely in the presence of a very important pattern called Fauxbourdon!

Fauxbourdon is a pattern in musical composition formed by a succession of 3rds and 6ths.

In fact, when we encounter a simple number 6 alone, without another number, the 3 is always implied: so, in addition to playing a 6, you should also play a 3.

Of course, you can decide to play just a 6 or just a 3, for example, if the violin you are accompanying is already playing that note!

⚠️ But pay very close attention! ⚠️

In the Fauxbourdon, you could fall into one of the most feared pitfalls for composition students: parallel fifths!

Between the two upper voices, you might have parallel fourths, which are fine because they are accompanied by parallel thirds.

But if you invert the two upper voices, you would end up with the dreaded parallel fifths!

In this video, you will learn how Fauxbourdon works, how to recognize it, and how to use it best in your compositions and improvisations!

And, if you are a true and enthusiastic Musicus Practicus, seize this opportunity to finally learn Solmisation: that magical power that allows you to read music like a true Musicus Practicus!