Johann Sebastian Bach Quiz
From the course, History 1, from Ashby Musical Enterprises.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
In which city was Bach born?
- A.
Cothen
- B.
Eisenach
- C.
Leipzig
- D.
Weimar
Correct Answer
B. EisenachExplanation
Bach was born in Eisenach.Rate this question:
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- 2.
In which year was Bach born?
Correct Answer
1685Explanation
Bach was born in 1685.Rate this question:
- 3.
Which of the following people was not associated with Bach?
- A.
Anna Magdalena
- B.
Dietrich Buxtehude
- C.
Juditha Triumphans
- D.
Maria Barbara
Correct Answer
C. Juditha TriumphansExplanation
Juditha Triumphans was not associated with Bach. Anna Magdalena was Bach's second wife and a talented musician herself. Dietrich Buxtehude was a composer and organist who influenced Bach's music. Maria Barbara was Bach's first wife and a soprano singer. However, Juditha Triumphans is an oratorio composed by Antonio Vivaldi, not Bach.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Which of the following works is not a composition by Bach?
- A.
Israel in Egypt
- B.
Mass in B minor
- C.
St. Matthew Passion
- D.
The Well Tempered Clavier
Correct Answer
A. Israel in EgyptExplanation
Israel in Egypt is a choral work composed by George Frideric Handel, not Johann Sebastian Bach. Bach is known for his compositions such as Mass in B minor, St. Matthew Passion, and The Well Tempered Clavier.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Which of the following letters would be found in a listing of Bach's music?
- A.
BWV
- B.
Hob.
- C.
Op.
- D.
RV
Correct Answer
A. BWVExplanation
BWV stands for Bach-Werke-Verzeichnis, which is a catalog of Johann Sebastian Bach's compositions. It is commonly used by musicologists and musicians to identify and categorize Bach's music. Therefore, the letter combination "BWV" would definitely be found in a listing of Bach's music.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Bach began his career as a church organist.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Bach's career did indeed start as a church organist. He was appointed as an organist at various churches throughout his early career, including the Arnstadt and Mühlhausen churches. This position allowed him to showcase his talent and develop his skills as a musician. Bach's work as a church organist laid the foundation for his later achievements as a composer and conductor.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Because Bach travelled all over Europe, he was indisputably the most popular composer of his day.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Bach's popularity may have been limited to certain regions or countries, rather than being universally popular throughout Europe. Additionally, there may have been other composers who were equally or even more popular during his time. Therefore, it cannot be stated that Bach was indisputably the most popular composer of his day.Rate this question:
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- 8.
What is the compositional technique of overlapping subject entries within a fugue?
- A.
Augmentation
- B.
Countersubject
- C.
Diminution
- D.
Stretto
Correct Answer
D. StrettoExplanation
Stretto is the compositional technique of overlapping subject entries within a fugue. It involves the overlapping of different voices, with one voice starting the subject before the previous voice has completed it. This creates a sense of increased intensity and urgency in the music. Stretto is often used towards the end of a fugue to heighten the tension and create a climactic effect. It adds complexity and depth to the overall texture of the composition.Rate this question:
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- 9.
What is the compositional technique involving a sustained note over which the harmonies change?
Correct Answer
pedal pointExplanation
Pedal point is a compositional technique where a sustained note or tone is played while the harmonies change around it. This technique creates a sense of tension and stability, as the sustained note acts as a focal point while the harmonies shift and evolve. It is commonly used in various genres of music, such as classical, jazz, and rock, to add depth and complexity to the overall sound.Rate this question:
- 10.
Name the year of Bach's death.
Correct Answer
1750Explanation
Bach died in 1750.Rate this question:
Quiz Review Timeline +
Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.
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Current Version
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Mar 22, 2023Quiz Edited by
ProProfs Editorial Team -
Dec 16, 2009Quiz Created by
Scott Ashby
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