**Voice leading** (or **part writing**) is the combination of multiple melodic lines such that they result in harmony. While related to counterpoint, voice leading generally refers to the treatment of melodic voices in a homophonic texture. Voice leading in the [[Common Practice Era]] is characterized by smooth and independent melodic lines that move primarily by conjunct motion, with the exception of the bass. Additionally, composers almost universally avoided parallel perfect consonances between voices. While voice leading may concern any number of voices, there has traditionally been a heavy focus on [[Four-Part Voice Leading]], especially in introductory music theory courses.