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...commonwealth of Music original: "blica Muſica." This completes the word "publica" from the previous page's final line. faithfully. Furthermore, as Plato reminds us in the works of Cicero: we are not born for ourselves alone; our country claims a part of our birth, our parents a part, and our friends a part. Moreover, you will easily notice, beloved lover of music original: "Philomuſe." From the Greek 'philos' (loving) and 'mousa' (music/muse)., that in this Treatise original: "Tractatu", I have given very little space to the speculative side of the art, but more effort to the practical side, as it is more necessary—for all the praise of virtue consists in action.

Finally, for easier understanding and so that the truth might shine more brightly, I have chosen to present the second part as a dialogue original: "dialogicè." A common educational format in the 18th century where a master and student converse.. By Aloysius, the Teacher, I mean that most famous light of Music, the man from Palestrina original: "Præneſtinum." Referring to Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina (c. 1525–1594), whom Fux considered the supreme master of polyphony. (or as others prefer, Praestinus), to whom I owe everything I know in this science, and whose memory, as long as I live, I shall never cease to honor with the greatest duty of piety. By the name Joseph, I address the Student original: "Diſcipulum." Joseph is Fux's own first name, representing himself as a humble student of the great master's style. who is eager to learn the musical art. Lastly, do not let the simple style of my writing offend you; for I claim no mastery of Latin except by the right of return original: "jure poſtliminii." A legal term referring to the recovery of rights by someone returning from exile; Fux suggests his Latin is a functional tool he has reclaimed, rather than a polished, oratorical display.; I would rather be understood than seem a great orator. Farewell, enjoy, and be kind.

APPENDIX.

If, kind Reader, you find anything that strays from the proper order of writing, I trust you will bear it with a calm mind, once you understand that [this was written] amidst frequent illnesses, sometimes lasting for several months, and indeed...

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