Keyboard Harmony: Partimento C

About this course

This course examines the eighteenth-century Neapolitan partimento tradition through keyboard-based work on harmony and counterpoint. Learners explore Galant schemata and established patterns, including the Rule of the Octave, cadences, Romanesca and Quiescenza, then combine them to harmonise basslines and shape improvisations or compositions. Teaching combines tutor demonstration with individual practice, group playing and individual playing. Each learner has access to a keyboard during class, with activities focused on applying figured bass and internalising harmonic and contrapuntal principles through repeated playing.

What you'll learn

• Apply figured bass at the keyboard
• Identify and use stock phrases including the Rule of the Octave, cadences, Romanesca and Quiescenza
• Harmonise basslines using established stock phrases
• Improvise using harmonic and melodic patterns
• Apply harmonic and contrapuntal principles through keyboard playing

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for intermediate learners developing beyond fundamental theory and keyboard skills. Students should have good knowledge of Grade 5 theory or equivalent, including some figured bass, and be able to play with independent hands. Participation includes individual practice alongside group and individual playing.

• Requires knowledge of figured bass
• Requires the ability to play keyboard parts with independent hands
• Includes regular individual practice and group playing

Before you go

• Learners are asked to bring enthusiasm and commitment to practice.