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Counterpoint technique in which the interval direction is changed. Any ascending interval becomes a descending interval and vice versa. An example from Bach's Invention BWV 772.
This motive:
Is transformed by inversion:
intervals in original motive |
2nd ascending |
2nd ascending |
2nd ascending |
3rd descending |
2nd ascending |
3rd descending |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
intervals in inverted motive |
2nd descending |
2nd descending |
2nd descending |
3rd ascending |
2nd descending |
3rd ascending |
It looks like a reflection in a mirror. This is why it is sometimes called mirror inversion:
The Quarendo invenietis canon from Bach's Musical Offering is an example of a canon by inversion or contrary motion:
See: