When encountering rests over barlines, let’s say a quarter at the end of a measure followed by a quarter rest at the next measure, should we still voice lead, or is it okay to jump out and start a new phrase? I’ve always been trying to voice lead but the thought popped up and now I’m not totally sure. 🤯
Great question Kurt! I usually advice that you observe the following parameters: voice lead if the rest before the chord change lasts a dotted quarter note or less. If it’s a half rest or more, you’re free to start a new phrase without voice leading if you like.