Duke Ellington Worksheet From Composers Monthy
Use the Composer's Monthly sheet from class to answer the questions. Once you receive the sheet, read the entire sheet and andwer the questions AND the word search on the back. Scores will be automatically sent to Mr. S
Questions and Answers
- 1.
Read ALL THIS JAZZ on the back. TRUE OR FALSE Swing bands and jazz bands are the same thing.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Swing bands and jazz bands are not the same thing. While both genres of music are related and have overlapping elements, they are distinct from each other. Swing music is a subgenre of jazz that emerged in the 1930s and is characterized by a strong rhythmic "swing" feel and a focus on danceable tunes. Jazz, on the other hand, is a broader genre that encompasses various styles and subgenres, including swing. Therefore, it is incorrect to say that swing bands and jazz bands are the same thing.Rate this question:
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- 2.
What was one of the differences?
- A.
Swing bands played swing music and orchestra music
- B.
Jazz bands were used more for radio
- C.
Swing bands were larger
- D.
Jazz bands were larger
Correct Answer
C. Swing bands were largerExplanation
The correct answer is that swing bands were larger. This can be inferred from the statement that swing bands played swing music and orchestra music, which suggests that they required a larger number of musicians to perform both genres effectively. In contrast, the statement about jazz bands being used more for radio does not provide any information about their size. Therefore, the difference in size between swing bands and jazz bands is the most logical explanation based on the given information.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Another difference was......
- A.
Swing bands played at dances
- B.
Jazz bands played at dances
- C.
Jazz bands played more at movie houses
- D.
Swing bands were more popular
Correct Answer
B. Jazz bands played at dancesExplanation
Jazz bands played at dances because jazz music was popular during the early 20th century and was often associated with social gatherings and entertainment. Dances were a common social event where people would gather to listen to and dance to live music. Jazz bands were known for their energetic and improvisational style, making them a popular choice for dance events. Additionally, jazz music had a strong influence on the development of dance styles such as the Charleston and the Lindy Hop, further cementing its connection to dance culture.Rate this question:
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- 4.
What did Mr. Ellington believe to be the most important ingredient of "swing" music?
- A.
Melody
- B.
Rhythm
- C.
Solos
- D.
Big bands
Correct Answer
B. RhythmExplanation
Mr. Ellington believed that rhythm was the most important ingredient of "swing" music. Rhythm is the essential element that gives swing music its distinctive groove and feel. It is the driving force behind the music, creating a sense of energy and syncopation that makes people want to dance. While melody, solos, and big bands are all important components of swing music, it is the rhythmic foundation that sets it apart and defines its character.Rate this question:
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- 5.
What are "schooled guys"?
- A.
Guys that learned to play in school bands
- B.
Guys that learned to play by listening to other bands
- C.
Guys that know how to read music
- D.
Guys that borrowed instruments from other guys
Correct Answer
C. Guys that know how to read musicExplanation
"Schooled guys" refers to individuals who have received formal education or training in music theory and can read sheet music. They have acquired knowledge and skills through structured learning, which enables them to understand and interpret musical notations. This distinguishes them from the other options provided, as they may have learned to play through different means such as playing in school bands, listening to other bands, or borrowing instruments from others.Rate this question:
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- 6.
What are "ear cats"?
- A.
Guys that learned to play in school bands
- B.
Guys that learned to play by listening to other bands
- C.
Guys that know how to read music
- D.
Guys that borrowed instruments from other guys
Correct Answer
B. Guys that learned to play by listening to other bandsExplanation
"Ear cats" are referred to as guys who learned to play by listening to other bands. This means that instead of formal music education or reading sheet music, they developed their musical skills by actively listening to and studying the music of other bands. They likely honed their abilities by imitating and emulating the playing styles and techniques of their favorite musicians.Rate this question:
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- 7.
How did Mr. Ellington earn his living when he was starting out in music?
- A.
He was an artist
- B.
He was a music player in a movie theater
- C.
He gave piano lessons
- D.
He cleaned stores as a kid
Correct Answer
A. He was an artistExplanation
Mr. Ellington earned his living as an artist when he was starting out in music. This implies that he made money through his artistic abilities, possibly by selling his artwork or by taking commissions for his artistic services.Rate this question:
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- 8.
How did Mr. Ellingotn "doubly" profit from dances?
- A.
He created the idea of working with 'ear cats'
- B.
He created the idea of bands in night clubs
- C.
He created the dances
- D.
He created the dance posters
Correct Answer
D. He created the dance postersExplanation
Mr. Ellington "doubly" profited from dances by creating the dance posters. This means that he not only organized and created the dances themselves, but he also designed and created the promotional posters for these events. By doing so, he was able to generate additional income from the sale of these posters, in addition to the profits from the actual dance events.Rate this question:
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- 9.
What specific things did Mr. Ellington do to acheive his unique band sound?
- A.
He played on large nightclubs
- B.
Pieces were connected with interludes
- C.
Songs were shorter and easier to dance to
- D.
He worked them REALLY hard for many hours
Correct Answer
B. Pieces were connected with interludesExplanation
Mr. Ellington achieved his unique band sound by connecting his pieces with interludes. This means that he seamlessly transitioned from one musical piece to another by incorporating interludes, which are short musical segments that serve as transitions or bridges between different sections of a composition. This technique allowed Mr. Ellington to create a cohesive and continuous musical experience for his audience.Rate this question:
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- 10.
What does it mean to improvise?
- A.
To solo with the whole band
- B.
To be a perfect reader
- C.
To make it up
Correct Answer
C. To make it upExplanation
To improvise means to make it up on the spot, without any prior planning or preparation. It involves creating or performing something spontaneously, often in response to a given situation or context. In the context of music, improvisation refers to the act of creating or playing music in real-time, without following a pre-written score or script. It requires the ability to think quickly, adapt to changing circumstances, and creatively express oneself in the moment.Rate this question:
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- 11.
How is improvisation used in jazz or swing music?
- A.
It is a way to be personally expressive
- B.
It is a way to get out of playing the music
- C.
It is a way of being the star of the show
Correct Answer
A. It is a way to be personally expressiveExplanation
Improvisation is an essential element in jazz or swing music as it allows musicians to showcase their personal expression and creativity. By spontaneously creating melodies, harmonies, and rhythms, performers can add their unique touch to the music, making each performance distinct and individual. This form of self-expression is highly valued in jazz and swing, as it allows musicians to communicate their emotions and connect with the audience on a deeper level. Improvisation also enables musicians to interact and engage with each other during live performances, creating a dynamic and exciting musical experience.Rate this question:
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- 12.
What experimental thing did Duke use in his band?
- A.
Brushes for drums
- B.
Toilet plungers for trumpets
- C.
Electric microphones for saxophones
Correct Answer
B. Toilet plungers for trumpetsExplanation
Duke used toilet plungers for trumpets in his band. This experimental choice of using unconventional tools for playing the trumpet could have been a creative decision to achieve a unique sound or to add a comedic element to the performance. By using toilet plungers instead of traditional trumpet mutes, Duke may have been able to create a distinct and unexpected sound, enhancing the overall musical experience for the audience.Rate this question:
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- 13.
WORD GAME - It Don't Mean a Thing if it ain't got that..............
- A.
Bling
- B.
Thing
- C.
Ring
- D.
Swing
Correct Answer
D. SwingExplanation
The phrase "It Don't Mean a Thing if it ain't got that swing" is a famous line from a jazz song by Duke Ellington. In this context, "swing" refers to the rhythmic and improvisational feel that is characteristic of jazz music. The phrase means that without this essential element of swing, the music or any other thing lacks vitality and significance. Therefore, "swing" is the correct answer as it completes the phrase and conveys the intended meaning.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Duke's other special talent was...
- A.
Dancing
- B.
Improvising
- C.
Ragtime
- D.
Art
Correct Answer
D. ArtExplanation
Duke's other special talent was art. This suggests that Duke had a skill or ability in creating or appreciating visual or aesthetic works. This could include painting, drawing, sculpture, or any other form of artistic expression. It implies that Duke had a creative side and was able to express himself through art.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Mr. Ellington's job at the Cotton Club.
- A.
Bartender
- B.
Band leader
- C.
Artist
- D.
Club owner
Correct Answer
B. Band leaderExplanation
Mr. Ellington's job at the Cotton Club was as a band leader. This means that he was responsible for leading and conducting a musical ensemble, most likely a jazz band, that performed at the club. As a band leader, Mr. Ellington would have been in charge of selecting and arranging the music, directing rehearsals, and leading the band during performances. This role would have required strong musical skills, leadership abilities, and a deep understanding of the genre.Rate this question:
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- 16.
The highest honor for a United States citizen.
- A.
Medal of Honor
- B.
Medal of Music
- C.
Medal of Freedom
- D.
Medal of Citizenship
Correct Answer
C. Medal of FreedomExplanation
The Medal of Freedom is the highest honor for a United States citizen. It is awarded to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the security or national interests of the country, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors. This prestigious award recognizes the recipient's outstanding achievements and their impact on society, making it the most esteemed honor that can be bestowed upon a U.S. citizen.Rate this question:
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