There is a word among many aspiring young composers and music academics that is often fraught with much cringing and clenching of teeth: counterpoint. But what exactly is counterpoint, and what's all the fuss about? This week, we explore these questions and reminisce about the glory and frustration of studying contrapuntal techniques. To keep up with the continuing discussion, visit us at perennial-dissonance.tumblr.com and subscribe to us on iTunes!