Rameau Jean Philippe. A Treatise of Music, Containing the Principles of Composition

2nd rd. — Translated from the French. — London: J. Murray and L. White, 1779. — 302 p.This book presents a practical guide to musical composition, progressively guiding beginners toward writing four-part pieces. The author, an experienced musician and pedagogue, begins by grounding the reader in the basics of diatonic sounds and intervals, as well as the construction of chords. This initial foundation serves to prepare readers for more advanced discussions of musical structure and compositional technique. The book does not merely offer abstract theory, however - it is full of musical examples and exercises, which help to illustrate the practical application of the concepts presented. This combination of theoretical depth and practical exercises makes the book a valuable resource not just for beginners, but for composers of any level looking to enhance their skills.Introduction to Practical Music.
Of the fundamental Bass.
Of the perfect Chord, by which begins Composition in four Parts.
Of the Succession or Sequence of Chords.
Of some Rules that must be observed.
Of the Key, and of its Denomination of Flat and Sharp.
Of the Marnier of Modulating harmonically, when a, diatonic Progression is given to the Bass
Of the continued Bass.
Of the progression of the Bass.
Of some other Rules taken from the last Example.
Of the perfect Cadence.