What are the benefits of learning Counterpoint?

[jason_sioco]

I studied theory and harmony. I will be learning counterpoint this fall. I heard that there are a lot of benefits when it comes to composition if I study counterpoint. I heard the greatest composers like Bach, Beethoven, and Mozart all used counterpoint in their compositions. Not even aware or even trying, Lennon and McCartney has some elements of counterpoint in their songs.

Right now I'm struggling with my melody writing in Piano. I posted my music on soundcloud if you feel like checking my music. It's not really great.

I want to be a good melody writer, I'm kind of hoping that by understanding counterpoint, my melodies will evolve to something better.

Is counterpoint a powerful tool in composition or is it just a pointless theoretical exercise that you are required to take at school?

[mjames]

You kinda answered your own question, but imo I feel like counterpoint adds substance to a work of music. it can't all just be about melody. Well, that actually depends on the kind of music you want to write, but I feel like it can never hurt to add counterpoint in your music.

[iansinclair]

Indeed, you kind of answered your own question.  I would say, quite bluntly, that you will never be able to write anything much more interesting than a catchy tune with chords unless and until you understand counterpoint.

Not, mind you, that a catchy tune with chords is necessarily bad -- popular music is full of them, and they seem to sell...

Lennon and McCartney do indeed use counterpoint, and once you have studied it you will recognize it and appreciate their songs all the more for it.  A surprising amount of folk music uses it in what at first appears to be "just harmony".  And, as you note, the greatest composers all used and continue to use it.