In music theory counterpoint is the relationship between voices which are harmonically interdependent (polyphony) yet independent in rhythm and contour. It has been most commonly identified in the European classical tradition, strongly developing during the Renaissance and in much of the common practice period, especially in the Baroque. The term originates from the Latin punctus contra punctum meaning "point against point", i.e. "note against note". This classic introductory text focuses on the polyphonic vocal style perfected by Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina (1525 - 1594), the Italian Renaissance composer of sacred music and the best-known 16th-century representative of the Roman School of musical composition. Unlike many other texts, it maintains a careful balance between theoretical and practical problems, between historical and systematic methodology. The result is an exceptionally useful resource, ideal for classroom use in teaching modal counterpoint